How to use TrainerRoad's training plans for beginners



TexasTriathlete

New Member
Jan 13, 2011
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If TrainerRoads training plans are supposedly tailored for beginners, why do they still require users to input their Functional Threshold Power (FTP) and have a basic understanding of structured workouts? Shouldnt a plan geared towards new riders provide more guidance on how to find their FTP and explain the reasoning behind the workouts, rather than assuming they already know how to use the software and have some level of cycling knowledge? Isnt it just a case of TrainerRoad rebranding their existing plans and calling them beginner-friendly to appeal to a wider audience? What makes TrainerRoad think that a complete beginner would be able to just jump into their plans without any prior knowledge or experience? Is it really just a case of slapping a beginner label on a plan and calling it a day, rather than actually creating a comprehensive and user-friendly program that caters to the needs of true beginners?
 
You raise some valid concerns, but I can't help but feel that you're missing the point. Of course, structured training plans require a basic understanding of the concepts involved, including FTP. It's not reasonable to expect a training platform to hold your hand through every single detail.

At some point, beginners need to take responsibility for their own learning and do their own research. TrainerRoad provides a wealth of resources and guidance on their platform, including videos, articles, and forums where users can ask questions and get answers.

Furthermore, the assumption that complete beginners can't handle structured training plans is condescending and unhelpful. With the right guidance and resources, even novice cyclists can benefit from a structured training approach.

Finally, I take issue with the suggestion that TrainerRoad is merely rebranding their existing plans as beginner-friendly. As someone who has used their platform, I can attest to the fact that their beginner plans are specifically tailored to the needs of new cyclists. They provide a gradual progression, clear explanations of the workouts, and plenty of opportunities for new riders to learn and grow.

In short, while there may be room for improvement in how TrainerRoad communicates the requirements and benefits of their training plans, your characterization of them as elitist or unhelpful for beginners is unwarranted and unfair.
 
"FTP is a fundamental concept in cycling; omitting it would compromise the plan's efficacy. Novice riders need to understand their power output to progress, and TR's plans should provide resources for FTP calculation, not spoon-feed it."
 
TrainerRoad's approach may assume some cycling knowledge, but it's not uncommon for structured training platforms to do so. The onus is on the user to seek understanding. However, it's valid to question if more comprehensive guidance could be provided, especially for those unfamiliar with FTP or structured workouts. A balance between accessibility and effectiveness is key.
 
I feel ya. It's a valid concern, but I gotta push back a bit. Sure, TrainerRoad assumes some cycling knowledge, but where's the fun in life without a little learning? I get it, FTP and structured workouts can be intimidating, but they're not trying to pull a fast one on us. They do offer resources, just gotta dig in. Maybe they could do better, but let's not write 'em off yet.
 
It's a valid point that TrainerRoad may be assuming too much knowledge from beginners with their training plans. Requiring users to input their FTP and understand structured workouts can be intimidating for someone just starting out in cycling. A true beginner-friendly plan should provide detailed guidance on finding one's FTP and explain the reasoning behind the workouts.

TrainerRoad could improve by incorporating a comprehensive tutorial section for beginners, explaining the importance of FTP, how to measure it, and the benefits of structured workouts. This would create a more inclusive environment and help new riders feel more confident in their training.

Additionally, the cycling community could benefit from more beginner-oriented resources and forums where new riders can ask questions and learn from experienced cyclists. Encouraging a supportive community can help foster growth and learning for cyclists at all levels.

In conclusion, while TrainerRoad's training plans may be a good starting point, they could benefit from a more thorough approach to guiding beginners through the process, making the sport more accessible to newcomers.
 
Oh, you're right. Let's all just pretend that new cyclists know what FTP is or why structured workouts are important. I mean, who needs clear instructions or guidance, right? It's not like people getting into cycling might appreciate some help in understanding key concepts or anything.

And sure, TrainerRoad could definitely do better in explaining things to beginners. But why bother, when we can just assume everyone's knowledge level matches ours? I'm sure new cyclists will figure it all out on their own, no problem.

As for the cycling community, let's just keep it elitist and exclusive. You know, like a private club where everyone already knows each other. Newcomers? Pfft, they don't need our support or encouragement. They can just fend for themselves and learn everything the hard way.

Look, I get it. It's easier to pretend that everyone should already know what we know, but that's just not how learning works. It's not a weakness to admit that we could do better in helping new cyclists, it's an opportunity. Let's stop being sarcastic and start being more inclusive, shall we?
 
I feel you, but I gotta push back a bit. Sure, not everyone knows about FTP or structured workouts, but where's the fun in life without a bit of learning? I get it, it can be intimidating, but that's no reason to dismiss 'em. TrainerRoad does offer resources, just gotta dig in and find 'em. Maybe they could do better, but let's not write 'em off yet.

And as for the cycling community, let's not forget that we were all newbies once too. Instead of being sarcastic and exclusive, why not extend a hand and help newcomers out? It's not a weakness to admit we could do better in helping new cyclists. Let's be inclusive and share our knowledge, shall we? #cyclingforall #ridetogether