As a cyclist finishes their base training, it's important to evaluate how strong your aerobic base truly is. \u00a0By using a metric called “aerobic decoupling<\/strong><\/em>” you can quickly and easily determine if your base work was effective and if you're ready to progress into harder high-intensity interval training<\/a>. \u00a0But before you can evaluate your aerobic fitness, you need to learn what aerobic decoupling is and how to use it effectively.<\/p>\n If you're training with power, aerobic decoupling is a key measurement to evaluate as you perform base training<\/a>. \u00a0Aerobic decoupling is a numerical measurement of aerobic efficiency and endurance. \u00a0It's representative of your body's ability to process oxygen and produce energy (as detailed in Biohacking Energy Systems<\/a>) and is a marker of overall aerobic fitness.<\/p>\n Before you can appreciate the value of aerobic decoupling, here's a refresher about how your body produces aerobic energy and the concept of heart rate drift.<\/p>\n To produce energy, your body takes in oxygen through the lungs and passes it to working muscles via the blood stream. \u00a0Oxygen and a fuel (fat, protein or sugars) are processed in the mitochondria to create Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). \u00a0ATP is the actual energy molecule that allows your muscles to contract and create pedaling force. \u00a0Constant demands on the aerobic energy system can create a phenomenon known as heart rate drift.<\/p>\n Click through the jump to read the show notes for episode 78 of the Tailwind Coaching Podcast<\/a>:<\/p>\nWhat is aerobic decoupling and why do we care about it?<\/h2>\n