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Egzersiz Testleri

Ramp Test (Cycling) — Protocol, Norms and Application

Ramp Test (Cycling) — Protocol, Norms and Application

Measures: Maksimal aerobik güç (MAP), FTP tahmini

Table of Contents
  1. Protocol
  2. Formula
  3. Equipment Required
  4. Normative Values (Age: 20-40 (bisikletçiler))
  5. Practical Applications
  6. Limitations

Difficulty: Zor  |  Category: Aerobik

Protocol

The Ramp Test is a cycling protocol used to estimate maximal aerobic power (MAP) and functional threshold power (FTP) with progressively increasing power output over a relatively short duration. In the most commonly used version, power is increased by 25 W every minute.

Preparation: The smart trainer or power meter must be properly calibrated. A bike fitting check is performed — saddle height, handlebar distance, and cleat position. The participant warms up for 10–15 minutes: 5 minutes at low power, followed by 3×10-second sprints.

Protocol: The test starts at 100–150 W (depending on fitness level). Power increases by 25 W every minute. Cadence is preferably maintained around 80–100 RPM. The test continues until the participant cannot sustain the target power. Typical duration is 5–20 minutes.

Data Recording: The last completed watt value, test duration, and final heart rate are recorded.

Calculation: MAP = final watts achieved. FTP estimate = MAP × 0.75. For example, for a MAP of 350 W, FTP ≈ 262.5 W. W/kg normalization: FTP/kg is a critical performance indicator; >6 W/kg for Tour de France cyclists.

Post-Test: A 10–15 minute cool-down at low power is performed. Blood lactate measurement is optional. The FTP value is used to update training zones.

Formula

MAP = final_watts; FTP = MAP × 0.75; W/kg = FTP / bodyweight_kg

Equipment Required

bisiklet ergometre veya akıllı trainer, güç ölçer, kalp atım hızı monitörü

Normative Values (Age: 20-40 (bisikletçiler))

Classification Male Female
Excellent >5.5 W/kg FTP >4.5 W/kg FTP
Good 4.5-5.5 W/kg 3.5-4.5 W/kg
Average 3.5-4.5 W/kg 2.5-3.5 W/kg
Below Average 2.5-3.5 W/kg 1.8-2.5 W/kg
Poor <2.5 W/kg <1.8 W/kg

Practical Applications

The Ramp Test is a quick and practical method for determining FTP and training zones in cyclists. It is increasingly preferred over the 20-minute FTP test because it requires less mental endurance.

Limitations

The 0.75 coefficient may vary between individuals; for trained athletes the coefficient may be 0.77–0.80. Power meter calibration is critical.

Related Tests: FTP 20-Minute Test, Watt-max Test, Åstrand-Rhyming Test

Sources: Bini RR & Hume PA, 2014, Int J Sports Physiol Perform; Zwift Training Guide, 2023

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Key Facts
Protocol The Ramp Test is a cycling protocol used to estimate maximal aerobic power (MAP) and functional threshold power (FTP) with progressively increasing power output over a relatively short duration. In the most commonly used version, power is increased by 25 W every minute. Preparation: The smart trainer or power meter must be properly calibrated. A bike fitting check is performed — saddle height, handlebar distance, and cleat position. The participant warms up for 10–15 minutes: 5 minutes at low power, followed by 3×10-second sprints. Protocol: The test starts at 100–150 W (depending on fitness level). Power increases by 25 W every minute. Cadence is preferably maintained around 80–100 RPM. The test continues until the participant cannot sustain the target power. Typical duration is 5–20 minutes. Data Recording: The last completed watt value, test duration, and final heart rate are recorded. Calculation: MAP = final watts achieved. FTP estimate = MAP × 0.75. For example, for a MAP of 350 W, FTP ≈ 262.5 W. W/kg normalization: FTP/kg is a critical performance indicator; >6 W/kg for Tour de France cyclists. Post-Test: A 10–15 minute cool-down at low power is performed. Blood lactate measurement is optional. The FTP value is used to update training zones. Formula

MAP = final_watts; FTP = MAP × 0.75; W/kg = FTP / bodyweight_kg

Equipment Required

bisiklet ergometre veya akıllı trainer, güç ölçer, kalp atım hızı monitörü

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Hüseyin Akbulut
WRITTEN BY
Hüseyin Akbulut, MSc

Sport scientist and researcher. Founder of Sporeus, Turkey's evidence-based sport science platform.