Originally Posted by
gauvins
Hello David
As
john m flores indicated, power is related
to muscle mass. Not clear how much muscle mass one can get through training. In my case, I've observed a (small) increase in muscle mass since I got into touring. But age and genetics make it such that there's perhaps not much to expect from this.
Taking a step back -- my question was about the likelihood that training will lead to increased power. At this point in time I would answer a definite, but qualified yes. (1) It has led to an increase in cadence, which should translate into a power increase (not enough data yet, but indications that this will happen); (2) and perhaps some conditioning that will make me push a little harder/better. My quick superficial scan of related posts suggest a 25% increase in FTP. Asking generative models suggests 10-20% improvement in FTP. Asking about why training improves FTP, the model adds factors *other* than larger muscular mass. The first being cardio, followed by several neuro-muscular effects. Asked further about the impact of cadence, contrary to my understanding the model suggests that cadence does *not* have a direct impact on power.
Still learning...
ya, I figure it's the same as when we were younger, the more we train, the stronger and bigger our muscles become. Sure, age must come into play, but c'est la vie and we just have to accept that we aren't as strong as before.
Does anyone remember watching the Charlie Brown cartoons? With the teacher's voice being how the kids perceive it -- bwaa bwaa bwaa - ie, noise the kids aren't really listening to or understanding--all the physics talk and techno talk here kinda does that for me.
I just say that because I don't bother with trying to figure out the math or whatever, but I do know that the more hours I put in on a bike, and if I do exertions regularly (in my case, sprinting for a light, or purposely riding up hills) along with eating well, sleeping well, my leg muscles get bigger and stronger.
Just as when I was younger, except I accept that I have been and always will be a pretty average rider, and getting slower with each year.