How Math, Power Data, and Aerodynamics Changed Racing Strategy with Ryan Cooper & Prof Paul Laursen

How Math, Power Data, and Aerodynamics Changed Racing Strategy with Ryan Cooper & Prof Paul Laursen

From Training Science Podcast by Paul Laursen & Martin Buchheit

April 4, 2026 · 1h 6m · Season 1 · Episode 208

About this episode

Ryan Cooper discusses how mathematical modeling and power data transformed racing strategies in endurance sports.

What if you could predict your race before you even start? In this episode, Ryan Cooper shares the story behind one of endurance sport’s most influential tools, Best Bike Split. With a background in electrical engineering and aerospace, Ryan saw early on that the same physics used in aviation could be applied to cycling and triathlon performance. We dive into how power meters and modeling unlocked a new way to race, why normalized power became a game changer for long course athletes, and how ...

People in this episode

Hosts: Paul Laursen, Martin Buchheit

Guest: Ryan Cooper

Topics covered

  • racing strategy
  • endurance sports
  • power data
  • aerodynamics
  • cycling performance

Keywords

  • Best Bike Split
  • normalized power
  • endurance sports
  • cycling
  • triathlon
  • power meters
  • aerodynamics

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Best Bike Split, aerospace, cycling, triathlon

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