After several invitations and a pre-launch tour of the brilliantly laid out and squeaky clean facility I finally did the 1PM training ride at Watts Up on January 8, 09. Watts Up is in a a class that I call "the next generation of boutique training facilities". To quote their comprehensive web site "WattsUp Cycling is Toronto's first individualized power-based cycling program within a group environment. WattsUp Cycling is a science-backed, performance-based training program focused on improving your performance...however you measure performance". And you can bet your calloused butt it is the truth.
Located in an industrial warehouse off of O'Connor Ave., Watts Up is set up with 24 Computrainers (CTs) in 3 rows of 8 all hooked up to lap tops loaded with CTs proprietary 3D software. This type of commitment to your success deserves to be taken seriously.
Gone are the days of sitting on your fancy steed, secured to the trainer hammering away while the family shakes it's collective head and wonders whether the sweat drenched mad person grunting wildly in the basement has at long last lost it totally. Watts Up is a serious place where serious cyclists and tri-geeks can pursue their 2 wheeled passion in a supportive environment, under supervision and with professional guidance. The coaching and testing is done by competent and experienced athletes that actually care about you.
I am fortunate to know Peter Oyler, multisport specialist, from my Ironman days (he was usually finishing the races as I started the marathon). Peter is a coach at Watts Up and an extraordinary asset as well as a class individual. Peter invited me and made sure that I was set up and comfortable before starting us out on the most grueling section of the Ironman Canada course, Richter Pass. Throughout the 1 hour that I rode I could track everything from average wattage output (mine 210 over 1 hour) to the the distance between the 6 riders on a big screen, very cool. The CT is capable of analyzing your efficiency with Spin Scan and other bio feedback essentials that were only available in a few high performance labs until now.
Lactate threshold test is encouraged and is done on site in sterile conditions by Adam Johnston for a reasonable fee. Any serious athlete wants to know his/her numbers (it's a geek thing, don't tell your spouse, just do it). Lactate threshold is one of the best indicators that all of the pounding and time away from your kids soccer practice or ballroom dancing lessons was worth it.
Overall it was an extremely positive experience. I enjoy being with like minded fun loving but serious athletes. Riding is a passion and the ability to ride strongly is a gift that few of us understand or fully develop. Call Peter Oyler at 416 750 3888 and arrange a free introductory ride then call me and share your experience.
Dave Silcox
Silcox insurance
416 543 4372
1 comment:
David, a good recap of the experience. Having done 2-3 hour indoor trainer rides in prep for IM austria in 2006, i find the long sat and sunday morning rides at wattsup go by amazingly quickly. The fact that you can also ride with others, gives a feel of being out on the road and able to wile away the time.
the watt experience is also humbling. unlike a spin class where you can turn your hand around the tension knob (without ever contacting the knob!!) here there is no hiding.
What also becomes clear is that it is not just about watts, it is about watt to weight ratio. Clearly i need to materially uptick my watts or lose about 20kg.
qb
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