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if you want to do specific efforts a PM is a very valuable tool. But you also have to ask yourself why you ride a bike, if it's for fun, then spend the money on a good trip instead. If you want to reach your potential, for good reason, then yes, it will help to ride at set power, but still might not make you better.
You do not need a 20 minute hill. A 20 minute test isn't a valid way to set zones anyway, it's an approximate shortcut. I always like MAP tests to set zones/see fitness. But I also haven't done one in years. I have no need. Once you've ridden with power and feel for a while, you will be able to feel what is what.
skinny
I’ve had my most active year on the bike in 2020 with ~250k/~10-12hr weeks. All riding with HRM, with friends and pushing for Strava PRs. So Strava fitness score has been going up.
I’m thinking of getting Assioma power pedals and training with power next year, but I don’t have space for an indoor trainer (and I don’t really want one).
So, is it a waste of time to add power as a metric and try to do more structured training outdoors without an indoor trainer to do periodical FTP tests to track progress and set zones?
I can’t see a 20 minute hill in the South East that I could do a test outdoors on.
Is there any point in having a power meter if you don’t have accurate zones set?
Also, what’s the best application for outdoor training? I have a basic Training Peaks account, but I’ve heard Trainerroad provides more structured workouts for the cost.
I think I have a good basic understanding of training with power but it seems that indoor trainers are assumed as a standard piece of equipment in any advice I read online. Advice from someone who has done structured training without one is appreciated!