Run with Power: The Complete Guide to Power Meters for Running

The use of power meters for training guidance and the development of personal metrics for monitoring training progression has, over the past 15 years, transformed all rigorous training approaches for cycling. I expect the same to take place in running with the recent advent of reliable, easy to use running power meters. Jim Vance, a former professional triathlete and current triathlon and duathalon coach, has jumped on the bandwagon and written the first comprehensive book on the use of power meter training for running.This book is a great place to start to understand the reasons that one might want to use power data for training. The introductory chapters provide a compelling, sound basis from which a power-based training approach can be developed.From the fundamentals (and Vance’s extensive experience in utilization of power data in cycling training) a detailed discourse on the application of power meter training to running is presented in clear language and informative graphics.Central to any power meter-based training is the concept of parameterization of economy (net oxygen use per distance traveled) and efficiency (net pace per unit of power produced)- two critically important running metrics that, prior to the development of running power meters, could only be inferred from other, indirect, measurements. Experienced runners already have a sense of these parameters from their training but, just as with heart rate, having an analytic measure to confirm and reiterate what is felt or indirectly measured is yet another tool to get the most from one’s training. Although the author suggests that these data can be used in a positive feedback loop to adjust running technique and stride specifics, I have seen little in the peer-reviewed literature that supports the efficacy of stride and technique manipulation that results in increased performance at the competitive regional, national, or international level. Setting technique aside, the use of running economy and running efficiency metrics in training is, in theory, the ultimate goal of training for running where, given an individual’s specific and unique biomechanics, a training progression that optimizes economy and efficiency will yield a competitor who will likely perform to their greatest physical potential. The mental side is another story.In a comprehensive way, Vance runs through the details of utilizing running power for training including how to get started, determining functional threshold power (FTP- the power meter equivalent of lactate threshold for HR training) and setting zones, and then using these data for training plan development and monitoring. Vance also provides the most concise, clearest and transparent guide that I have read pertaining to the use of the Training Peaks online software tool that has power metrics fully integrated into analysis algorithms. It is a good reference for anyone starting out with TP as their training tracking and analysis choice.Also included in the book are some more advanced training approaches as well as some sample training plans for road running events from 5 km through the marathon.This book does not address application of running power to trail and ultra running but it seems straightforward that the concepts are directly transferable with similar and appropriate modifications as is currently operative with heart rate training for trail runners and ultra runners. In fact, given the high variability in trail grades, and therefore in pace, the power meter is an even more valuable tool on trails than it is on roads. And for ultra runners, the power meter should substantially help in pacing during training and racing- a critical skill for success.Provided that the current crop of power meters (e.g. Stryd) succeed in providing an accurate and easy to use method for obtaining reliable running power metrics, we should see a similar transformation of running training that has been experienced in cycling training and Vance’s book will be an important part of this transformation. If you are considering adding power to your running training, I highly recommend this book as a comprehensive, clearly written, and valuable resource.Personally, I will not be adding power to my training metrics until Garmin transparently accommodates running power into their firmware and software for their high-end watches. Right now the integration is “clugey” at best for Garmin. Suunto high-end watch users already have a fully integrated running power capability and with direct download into Training Peaks, everything in this book can be applied to your training.Boasts First comprehensive resource for use of power meters for running training clear, concise writing with informative graphics nice introductory information on the use of Training Peaks for training with power for running can also be used as a basic training guide and plan development toolBeefs no discussion on how running power meters work and which meters are currently providing reliable data no specific discourse on application of running power measurement to trail and ultra running where the use of power may be most advantageous

IF YOU PUT OUT THE FACT THAT THE AUTHOR SPENTS ALLOT OF INK IN THE FIRST CHAPTERS TRYING TO CONVINCE YOU ABOUT THE NECECITY OF A RUNNING POWER METER, ITS A GOOD START IN A NEW CHAPTER IN RUNNING TRAINING AND COACHING. THE WRITER ANALYSES THE TECHNICAL AND PRACTICAL PARTS OF USING A RUNNING POWER METER, ALTHOU A NEWCOMER TO POWER TRAINIG MAY HAVE SOME PROBLEMS UNDERSTANDING THE EXTRA COMPLEXITY OF TERMS AND GRAFS. BETTER FOR COACHES BUT IS WORTH THE MONEY.

The next big thing in running is here! If you are not running with power, you're missing a huge opportunity. I just finished reading Jim Vance's new book "Run with Power" and it is a wealth of information. I having been using a Stryd power meter while running for several months now and with this book Jim has provided me with invaluable insight into how to better use it including setting the proper training zones for power and tracking efficiency of my efforts as well as learning how to use it to tell when I am over fatigued. If you wanna run with a power meter, GET THIS BOOK!

It is a nice piece of work, well written. There is a nice amount of explanation about every covered topic. Maybe sometimes it feels a little bit too much, but in this case, I prefer this way. The book is totally centered around long distance running with emphasis on marathon and half marathon, and touching 5K and 10K. This should be advertised more, or just I wanted to see the possibility of shorter distance analysys into the description.

Applying the concept and the science of running with power....this book is the best guide to improve and take advantage from my running economy and perfomance.

Provides very good info on training with power and various other statistics for runners. Power meters are still in their infancy and it would be interesting to see how this book’s viewpoint holds over time.

Takes a subject that seems hard and makes it simple. I believe everyone will run with power in 2 or 3 yeers. Training is a lot of fun but training with technoligy makes it even more fun and more effective

This book is just an attempt to write something on hot topic of running powermeters. A lot of pointless theory diluted with repetitive empty phrases. Every single statement is repeated countless times just to increase book's volume.If you're familiar with Friel's concepts of FTP/NP/TSS, you will not find anything useful information in this book. If you're looking for some insights, practical information and case studies, you will not find them either. What's especially funny is that fictional power meters are used throughout the book. There is just no information about powermeter solutions currently available.I regretted buying this book, there is much more valuable information about running with power available on internet. For example, stryd's site and blog are far superior to this book.

I am training with a STRYD footpod, this book has been really good at helping me get my head around how running power is different to cycling power, and the need for understanding running efficiency, I like half marathon and longer races and this is really helping me not over train my middle aged body... I like hilly races too, and pacing up hill is now really good... you can see how power is instant, and heart rate catches up, but using heart rate could lead to unhelpful buildup of lactate which power helps you get hold of sooner.

This was an insightful read, especially for those at the upper end of running or those into data. It tries to prove or show how power relates to pace/speed - but not really fully explaining it. While the basic principles of training are covered, it is very technical and one I would not recommend for those new or just starting to run. It is very technical and can be very over whelming!

An interesting read but tough going because of all the formulas and abbreviations.

Is an excellent introduction to the new world of running with power. To get most out of book you will need to get a Stryd power meter and most likely a training peaks premiere account, but if u want more data and more ways of training get this book and that power meter!

Hyperbolic, verbose and repetitive. I don't think I learned anything new from this book. Stryd seems pretty easy to use and swept up. I use this with 80 20 running by Matt Fitzgerald (which is well written).