What effect would wearing a training mask have on FTP during exercise?
 

Wearing a training mask restricts your air intake (it's meant to simulate high altitude oxygen restriction but it's not exactly the same), so I assume your cardiovascular system would have to work much harder per breath to get enough oxygen to your muscles.

If a cyclist were wearing this mask while doing a 60 minute FTP ride, approximately how much lower should they expect their FTP to be than without the mask?

Is that drop similar to what they might expect at high altitude?

:popcorn

Funny tan lines.

Breathe through your nose instead.

Training with a training mask is like training in the military with your gas mask on - Its not really doing much conditioning of your body - But it makes a big difference psychologically - You learn that you can go on and finish your task inspite of heavy breathing and struggle for air - It can be a tremendous edge...

about 6 feet deep.

yes, but I'm not asking about the physiological changes long term, just what effect it has on you're ability to reach FTP during that actual usage off the mask

It'll let all the passersby know how serious you are.

Some people use training masks while posting on the 41.

If you're going to do it, do it right:

You want to pedal harder, you need a heavy and upright bicycle.

But upright isn't enough air drag for training purposes; you need a special device for that. A cape.

Restricted breathing is nothing if the air is fresh and cold. Think Mont Ventoux, think steaming hot, humid, non moving air. You need a proper full environment management solution.

This is what you need:


http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=359811

I love how Darth Vader's headlight is pointed down at the front wheel!

must also apply the force against the direction of motion.

The best information I could find is: http://trainright.com/understanding-...ing-challenge/ but that's the effect of altitude on FTP, not restricted airflow (they're different).