Originally Posted by
Doge
No such assumption. Not using a PM can be just as valid. There are few posts of how folks train to a power number. I have the book on it, I don't see it posted about. Just having one is nice, but that is not training to it.
If I'm training with structure, I'm training with power. Set a target watt range for given duration. Go. Repeat accordingly. Adjust as needed on the ride or after the ride for future workouts. Hr works, but I prefer power.
I'll use it in races, too, but that's mostly in TTs. Go into the TT with some target power metric, adjust up/down if needed. Might glance at it during a long climb in a race or while in a break, but that''s just to satisfy curiosity.