FTP Climb Calculator

The calculator uses a standard physics model accounting for gravity, rolling resistance, aerodynamic drag (adjusted for altitude), and sustainable power decay over time. For climbs under 60 minutes, expect estimates within 5-10% of actual times. Longer climbs have more variability due to pacing, nutrition, and fatigue. Real-world factors like wind, road surface, and temperature are not modelled.

FTP (Functional Threshold Power) is the maximum power you can sustain for approximately one hour. It's the gold standard metric for cycling fitness. You can estimate your FTP with a 20-minute all-out effort on a turbo trainer, then multiply your average power by 0.95. If you don't have a power meter, a rough guide: beginners typically range from 150-200W, regular club riders 200-280W, and competitive racers 280-350W+.

VAM (Velocità Ascensionale Media) measures your rate of vertical ascent in metres per hour. It was popularised by Dr. Michele Ferrari as a way to compare climbing performance across different gradients. Recreational riders typically achieve 600-900 m/h, strong amateurs 900-1200 m/h, and professionals 1400-1800 m/h on major climbs.

The performance tier is based on your watts per kilogram (W/kg), which is the best predictor of climbing speed. Tiers range from Beginner (<2.0 W/kg) through Recreational, Sportive, Club Racer, Cat 3/4, Cat 1/2, Elite, to Pro (5.5+ W/kg). These roughly align with British Cycling race categories and give you a benchmark for where you stand and what you could aim for with structured training.

Use the "What If" tab to explore two key levers: increasing your FTP through structured training, and reducing weight. Even modest changes make a big difference. Try the sliders to see. A typical coached rider can improve their FTP by 10-20% in their first season of structured training. Learn more about coaching with Ian.