Joule 2.0 User Guide page 81
Chapter 14: Defi nition of Common Training Terms
Strain or Response
1. An indirect measure of the exercise intensity such as the cardiovascular (i.e., heart rate), meta-
bolic, or psychological response to a given power output. 2. A measure of the total training load
or work done that is based on a person’s response to a workout or bout of exercise rather than on
the actual work. 3. An index of the effect a given pattern or distribution of power output or stress
has on a given individual that is analogous to a wind chill factor or heat index. 4. A composite
representation of the diffi culty of a ride or workout that is based on indirect measures of exercise
intensity rather than direct measures of exercise intensity. 5. A composite representation of the
exercise intensity based on a manipulation of the actual or direct measure of power.
Stress or Stimulus
1. A direct measure of the exercise intensity such as the power output.
2. The total amount of work done in Kjoules calculated from direct measures of power output.
Stress to Strain Index
1. The ratio between the actual work done calculated from direct measures of power and the
work done calculated from perceived exertion. Theoretically, if an index of 1.0 indicates that a
rider’s perception of effort matches what actually happens. An index below 1.0 indicates that the
rider feels the effort was easier than what actually happened. Finally, an index above 1.0 indicates
that the rider feels the effort was harder than what actually happened. The index allows us to
relate the actual stress to an athlete’s strain. That is, it allows us to better understand how a given
amount of work affects the rider. If the index is below 1.0, there is a minimal effect while above 1.0
there is a strong effect.
Supra-Max Zone
1. A very short, all out effort that exceeds the power output associated with VO2 max or a person’s
max zone. 2. An exercise intensity that is almost entirely dependent on the anaerobic metabolism
of stored ATP, Phosphagens, and carbohydrates. 3. An all out effort lasting 1 second to 2 minutes.
Torque
1. A force applied through a turning axis at a point some distance away from that axis. 2. A turning
or twisting force. 3. Force x Distance. 4. Power divided by angular velocity.
