New to cycling

[DJM83]

Originally Posted by Syndrome

I don't understand. Isn't regular exercise meant to make one fitter? Which means for any give activity a person's body works less to produce the same output as their efficiency increases.

So why after today's ride did the stats say I worked harder then previous ride of the identical circuit but my time was slower? An the ride prior today's showed the identical trend - my body is working harder!

Course identical. Time almost identical. Breathing and cadence almost identical. But my average heart rate and peak heart rate are higher! I am getting less fitter according to the numbers.

Im no expert.

But i think it also depends on the workload for the time leading up to the recorded exercise. I have that also, im not super fit but some rides the exertion level is higher than other rides.
I think it comes down to consistency also which i dont have. I wouldnt read too much into it.

[Top_Ghia]

Fatigue can have quite an effect on heart rate. As can temperature.
Heart rate isn’t a great indicator of fitness. Output is a much better measure.
Certainly heart rate may come down with consistent training over time. But fluctuation is normal.
If I have a week or two off, my heart rate will be much higher than if I have had a solid block of training for 3 or 4 weeks.

Also how you warm up can have an effect.
Illness can also effect HR.

[blueoval]

Sleep or lack there of will affect the outcome of the HR the next day. I noticed during my peak fitness on the bike. If I had a rubbish night of sleep before a ride the next morning. My HR monitor will show it early on moderate effort. It also meant I would max out my limit of endurance earlier too. The Heart can only work with what the body gives it. Having sufficient rest the night/day before a long ride makes a big difference.