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Training load combines data on duration and intensity to estimate the physical effort of a workout.
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GPS watches and smartwatches calculate this using data such as heart rate, which are then processed using different algorithms for each device.
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It is useful information for monitoring progress, but this metric should not replace listening to your body and personal sensations.
Training load is a very useful metric for understanding how challenging a workout actually was. Like any data, however, it must be read and interpreted correctly.
What is training load?
First, it’s important to understand what we’re talking about. Training load combines the duration and intensity of a workout into a single numerical value. A long but not too strenuous workout will have a higher load value than a shorter, lighter workout. As the intensity of a short session increases, the load value may flip, exceeding that of the longer workout. It is a concept developed to estimate the stress that a physical activity exerts on the body. The purpose is to help athletes balance intense workouts and recovery days. Everyone can benefit from it, professionals and amateurs. Even you who most likely train hard but for pleasure and passion can use it to your advantage to improve fitness.
How the load is measured
Most GPS watches calculate training load by collecting a variety of data and processing each in their own method. Some even show the weekly or monthly cumulative load so that progress can be monitored over the long term. The tracking methodologies are different:
- heart rate data are processed to estimate excess post-exercise oxygen consumption, EPOC (Excess Postexercise Oxigen Consumption), a measure of “post-workout exertion”.
- training intensity is calculated based on pace or heart rate, ranking the load on a low, medium or high scale.
- at the end of the activity you assign a perceived intensity score on a scale of 1 to 10 based on how you felt.
Why this metric is useful (and why not)
For professional athletes or enthusiasts who pay attention to detail and pay close attention to data, training load can be very useful in setting up the best training plan. However, this data does not take into account factors that could affect it, such as an unhealthy state or even rest days. In addition, each GPS watch and tracker uses different algorithms, so the values could vary as the device varies. There are those on the contrary who prefer to focus on monitoring personal feelings rather than relying on numbers. It is understood that listening to one’s body remains crucial.
A natural balance
The training load is an interesting way to investigate and try to better understand the type of physical exertion you go through in training, but it is not essential. Why not? Because you already know when it is time to push and when it is time to rest, because you are smarter than a watch.