Running Potentiometer: A revolutionary tool for runners 

The world of running is constantly evolving, and today we will talk about one of the most innovative trends in runner training: the running potentiometer. Traditionally associated with cycling, this method has found its way into the field of running, offering runners a more accurate and effective way to measure and improve their performance. 

What is power training? 

Power training refers to the use of specific devices that They measure the amount of energy (in watts) a runner generates during their activity. Unlike traditional metrics such as speed or heart rate, power provides a direct measure of effort, regardless of external conditions such as terrain or weather.

Let's take an example, I may have an area marked at 140ppm, but on a hot day or where I have not rested well, I will reach this 140ppm with less intensity. Another example: Now with GPS, most of us train by rhythm. This is very good for a flat city. But what happens if I train on a route with ups and downs? Well, on climbs we will increase the intensity to maintain that pace and on descents, the opposite. This does not happen with the potentiometer. If we have to train at 290w, the profile or the weather doesn't matter. The effort will be the same, although the heart rate or rhythm will vary during the workout. 

Why is training with a Running power meter useful? 

• Accurate Measurement of Effort: Power offers an instant view of actual effort, allowing runners to adjust their intensity in real time. 
• Personalized training: By knowing the optimal power for different types of workouts, runners can customize their sessions to maximize efficiency and performance. It is easier to measure or give an absolute value of intensity to training.
• Injury prevention: By monitoring power, runners can avoid overtraining and the injuries associated with exceeding the limits of their physical capacity. 
• Performance improvement: Power-based training helps improve running economy and endurance, which translates into better performance in competitions. It will be easier for us to be aware of when we are more efficient and when we are not. For example, I can analyze when I run at 3'50" on the flat at 290w and that at the beginning of the season or in fatigue, to go at the same speed I developed 303w. I have clearly improved my efficiency compared to the beginning of the season or I can also see that in fatigue and at the end of training or races I am somewhat less efficient.

How to start power training 

To begin power training, runners should invest in a running-specific power meter. These devices They can be attached to footwear or incorporated into it and synchronize with smart watches or applications to analyze the data. Once you start training, the app will analyze your race and generate your training zones or, you can do a test or competition with it and in the same way, the application will generate your training zones as if it were heart rate or rhythm.

And the best thing is that it is not only an intensity indicator to prepare your training, another great advantage is the amount of data you have afterwards to analyze: Power developed, cadence, air resistance in each zone, contact time with the ground , vertical oscillation and a large number of variables to add to those you already mastered.

In 365 Rider you have the STRYD Next Gen Compatible with your GPS watches, lightweight and easy to use.

Power training is transforming the way runners prepare and compete. Delivering accurate data and enabling smarter training, this methodology is becoming an indispensable tool for serious runners looking to take their performance to the next level.  

En 365rider, we advise you to comprehensively use all available data—rhythms, heart rate, watts—to maximize the benefit of your workouts. We firmly believe that, although no individual data predominates over the others, the combined analysis of these elements is key to optimizing the performance and effectiveness of your training sessions. By integrating and examining these metrics together, you'll be able to gain a more complete understanding and get the most out of every workout.