Kingcyle Computerised Cyclist Turbo Trainer Maximal Test

Maximal Test

The Maximal test can be used to give the rider an indication of their base fitness level usually at the beginning of the season. The coaching staff select a 'starting ramp start power' and a 'ramp rate per minute' according to tables supplied - which relate to the rider's age and ability. The ramp start power is the power that the rider should be developing before the test starts, whilst the ramp rate is the amount of increasing power the rider has to achieve in order to match the standard laid down by the computer. The rider is alerted if they stray by +/- 3%. The length of the test is then decided on with twenty minutes being the usual length - although the test terminates when the rider cannot match the ramp rate increase. When the test ends the three minute recovery period starts monitoring the subject's heart rate, the speed at which it returns to a 'normal' rate also being a good indicator of fitness. Distilled to its simplest form, the rider has to match a constantly increasing level of power output, Exceeding the required amount will be of no benefit but will show on the final printout, as will any lapses in performance. The tests are split into periods of one minute's duration, and the highest average power over one of these periods is taken as the cyclists MAP.