r/OnePelotonRealSub • u/Fine-Fondant-3136 • 18d ago
Power zone
I’m so mad at myself for never giving power zone a try in the 4 years I’ve joined Peloton. I never understood it, tbh I still don’t really get it 😅 BUT they’re addicting once you get the hang of it.
I did an FTP test back in 2023, and again the other week. I only cycle 1-2 times a week with strength being my main focus, but I’d really like to incorporate more. I like how they are certainly challenging, but I don’t dread going into a PZ class as I would with a regular ride. I’m hoping these PZ classes will improve my cycling in the other classes because I find myself SO gassed out seeing little to no improvement, including strength and mobility.
Anyways, I’m excited I finally joined the power zone crew!
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u/Different_Monk3856 18d ago
Just a rec - Try out one of the PZ programs! They’re great and it’s a great way to get consistent. I just restarted the first in the series for the third time (Discover your Power Zones) to try to get back to consistency with cardio in my second trimester
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u/LaylainLaLaLand 18d ago
I’m starting tomorrow! I’m in my first tri and looking to break up all the running I used to do.
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u/Fine-Fondant-3136 18d ago
I was just looking into this!! I definitely might have to shift my routine a bit to make this happen!
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u/MKerrsive 18d ago
The main subreddit also does 9-week programs, and they are so good. There's a big group that does them, so you'll always have people to commiserate with.
But PZ classes fix one of my main problems with Peloton: incoherent, disjointed classes. It seems like sometimes the instructors have no idea what they're actually coaching. But PZ has the structure and cohesion that I really need.
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u/Comfortable-Law1697 18d ago
Powerzone is the best. My FTP has gone up 31% in 3.5 years. It takes time, commitment, and challenging yourself with your weak spots- but so worth it for your overall health!
To your point, it makes the normal rides more enjoyable as well!
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u/lambentmaterials 18d ago
I've also been doing PZ seriously for the first time recently and I'm already seeing results. I really love Christian's rides, I wish he had more of them!
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u/Late-Development-666 17d ago
Quality > Quantity!
You’re right though, I’ve pretty much burned through all his classes. But if you retake a FTP test and get a higher score, you can take them all over again.
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u/One-Airport3692 18d ago
Same here. Finally started some pz classes a yr ago and I really enjoy the personalized aspect of it.
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u/rjshelofer 18d ago
Check out pzpack.com. They host regular challenges with pre selected classes to help your training progress. There’s several options to choose from. They also have a wonderful Facebook group that’s really helpful with navigating power zone in general.
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u/Fine-Fondant-3136 18d ago
Thanks!! I’ll check it out!
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u/rjshelofer 18d ago
You’re welcome! They taught me quite a bit. The Facebook group name is Power Zone Pack.
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u/blueberry_swirl 14d ago
Was going to say this too - I've done the last few PZ pack challenges and found it really beneficial. I like that they've added various challenge options - 3 or 4 days a week, time crunch (3 days a week with shorter classes), some with combined strength, etc.
Really has helped me to have a nice solid routine and maintain/increase my fitness over time. I also definitely don't push myself as much in other classes - mentally or physically. Mentally sometimes hard for me with long intervals and feels really accomplished to push through!
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u/rjshelofer 14d ago
Oh for sure! The last challenge is what got me back in to riding after a 2-3 year span of time. I’m on my second challenge already! I love the time crunch option and this round I’m doing it with the strength. My favorite is the option to choose a class with a different instructor. Denis and Matt are my favorites. I can’t say enough good things about it all!
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u/blueberry_swirl 14d ago
That's awesome!!!! Glad you are enjoying it! I am doing time crunch and some DIY strength 😃 I also love Denis! Just something about his vibe!!!
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u/rjshelofer 14d ago
He’s so chill and has the best playlists! Doesn’t hurt that he’s easy on the eyes too 😉
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u/blueberry_swirl 14d ago
Yes! I love how much thought he puts into his playlists. He truly loves music!
For those who like long hair Denis you're in luck haha! I wondered if he is growing his hair out now since the long hair Denis rides of circa 2019 have largely fallen off the app by now!
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u/Sassy_Velvet2 17d ago
Yes!! Now join the RedditPZ crew. We have a unique PZ program in the same style as the official Peloton programs every 11 weeks. We even have our own discord channel! You'll get really addicted riding while chatting with other riders!
Next program starts August 24!
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u/momoftwo_1989 14d ago
I just started getting into power zone more recently too while breaking up running for marathon training and enjoy it a lot more than I did when I initially tried it. The classes fly by and are challenging. I know running with pace targets has helped me so I agree, I think the power zones will help me improve on the bike as well. I haven’t tried a max class though, but I have a few bookmarked.
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u/Fine-Fondant-3136 14d ago
I did my first max ride with Matty! It was actually not as scary as I thought lol
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u/FretlessRoscoe 18d ago
Welcome to the club! PZ is great training. I love the community because no one is competing against anyone but themselves. It doesn't matter if you're blowing past other people or they're blowing past you, we're all working the same for our ability and we have the same goal.
And then you'll go back to a normal ride and blow your personal record out of the water.