What is Critical Power?

Critical Power (CP) is a concept in endurance sports that defines the boundary between heavy and severe training intensity domains.

Critical Power (CP)

The highest power a cyclist can sustain for an extended period without excessive fatigue. Represents the aerobic threshold of endurance.

W' (W prime)

The amount of work above CP you can perform before complete exhaustion. Measured in kilojoules (kJ) and represents available energy for efforts like sprints and attacks.

How to use?

Enter at least 3 maximum efforts of different durations (recommended: 3min, 7min, 12min). The calculator will compute your CP and W' based on this data.

Maximum Efforts

1
2
3
Methodology

How does the calculation work?

1

Data Collection

Perform at least 3 maximum efforts of different durations. We recommend efforts between 3-12 minutes for the most accurate calculation.

2

Mathematical Model

The calculator uses linear regression to calculate CP and W' based on the relationship between power and effort duration.

3

Training Zones

Based on CP, individual training zones are calculated to help you optimize your training.

Want a more accurate test?

Laboratory testing with physiological measurements gives you even more accurate insight into your performance.

Book Testing