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The Second Threshold Explained: LT2, FTP & Critical Power Demystified
In this episode of The Athletes Compass, Dr. Paul Laursen and the team break down the science and practical application of the second threshold — also known as LT2, VT2, FTP, or critical power. They explain what physiologically happens when you cross this boundary, why base training is essential before adding threshold work, and how over-unders, tempo sessions, and VO2 max intervals raise performance. The conversation explores common mistakes athletes make (especially doing too much intensity), the role of durability, and how to assess threshold progress without lab testing. If you want to…
The skinny
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