Illustrative scenario · ATH-C42

Cyclist · Gran Fondo climbing

W/kg climbing: 3.6 → 4.1

Duration: 10 weeks

The goal

Hold 4.0 W/kg up the final 25-minute climb at La Marmotte without blowing.

What we changed

Sweetspot-block periodization (3 weeks loading + 1 deload). Threshold work in week 6–8 as VO2max bridge. Climbing-specific sessions: 4×10' over-unders simulating Alpe-d'Huez gradient changes. Heat acclimation week 9 (45-min easy rides at 32°C indoor).

Illustrative outcome

Reached the summit holding 4.1 W/kg average for the final climb. FTP +18W, weight stable, watts/kg improved by 8%.

Before → After

FTP276W294W
20-min climb power298W320W
Aerobic decoupling on climbs11.2%4.8%

Illustrative scenario only. The identifier, sessions, and before/after values are examples, not athlete records or performance evidence.

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