Every cyclist worth their salt is obsessed with power. It’s the gold standard for measuring effort and performance on the bike.
But what about us runners? Why hasn’t running power caught on in the same way, and how can we harness it to take our training to the next level?
Let’s dive right into it…
Running Power
Runners love their data—pace, heart rate, cadence, you name it. Running power is the new kid on the block, promising to revolutionize how we train.
Thanks to advancements in running watches and accessories, power metrics are now more accessible than ever. But what is running power, and why should you care?
What is Running Power
Running power measures how much work you’re doing while running, expressed in watts. Think of it as the ultimate internal effort gauge, reflecting how much force you’re generating with each stride.
The higher the watts, the more power you’re producing. But remember, factors like size and fitness level can affect your power numbers, so comparing them to others isn’t always useful.
Interestingly, because running engages more muscles than cycling, your running power will typically be higher than your cycling power. So don’t be surprised if your numbers look different!
Why Use Running Power Data?
Traditional metrics like pace and heart rate have their limitations.
Picture this: you’re running up a hill. If you’re pacing yourself based on speed alone, you’ll have to push harder, disrupting the consistency of a tempo run.
Heart rate is slow to react to sudden changes, making it tough to gauge effort in real-time.
Here’s our latest article on why it is good to run with a lower heart rate. Give it a read!
Running power, however, gives you an instant measure of effort, helping you maintain consistent effort across varying terrains and conditions.
The Cyclist’s Secret: Why Running Power Matters
Cyclists have long relied on power as the most reliable training metric. It’s measured via gauges in the cranks or pedals, directly linking force to speed.
For runners, though, the scenario is different. Running power is typically measured using wrist-based devices like Garmin or Polar watches, which estimate power using sensors that track pace, ground impact time, and incline.
For more precision, accessories like the HRM or a running dynamics pod can be added.
Boosting Efficiency with Running Power
So, does understanding your running power translate to better performance?
Absolutely!
By analyzing your power data, you can identify inefficiencies in your running form. For instance, if your power output drops as your heart rate climbs, it might indicate you’re wasting energy and could benefit from tweaking your form to avoid injuries and improve stamina.
Knowing your running power also aids in better pacing. Just like managing a battery, you don’t want to drain all your energy too quickly. Efficient energy use means better performance on race day, especially on varied terrain.
Power-Packed Training Tips
To improve your running power, incorporate hill sprints, strength training, and drills focused on your core and lower body.
For example, during threshold intervals on an undulating road, using power ensures you’re working at the right intensity without overdoing it.
The Bottom Line: Power Up Your Runs
Running power can be as transformative for runners as it has been for cyclists. It’s an invaluable tool for optimizing pacing and improving efficiency. And for data lovers, it adds another layer of insight to your training.
Regardless of your fitness level, considering power metrics can be a game-changer. If you’re just starting, keep an eye on it and see how it varies with different runs. As you get more comfortable, you’ll start to see the benefits.
I’d love to hear from you! Do you use power in your running, or is it something you’re considering now? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
