Power zones for a 250W FTP

The seven Coggan power zones — the canonical zone model every power-meter-based training system uses — calculated for an FTP of 250 watts. Plus common workout targets (sweet spot, threshold, VO2max, over-unders) in watts so you don’t have to do arithmetic on the bike.

Coggan zones at 250W FTP

ZoneName% FTPWattsPurpose
z1Active Recovery0–55% of FTP0–138 WPromote recovery; shake out fatigue without adding load.
z2Endurance56–75% of FTP140–188 WBuild aerobic base — mitochondrial density, fat oxidation, capillary growth.
z3Tempo76–90% of FTP190–225 WExtend endurance with a harder stimulus; race-pace for long events.
z4Lactate Threshold91–105% of FTP228–263 WRaise FTP; improve lactate shuttling and sustainable power.
z5VO2max106–120% of FTP265–300 WIncrease maximal aerobic power; push VO2 ceiling.
z6Anaerobic Capacity121–150% of FTP303–375 WDevelop anaerobic system; critical for surges and attacks.
z7Neuromuscular Power151%+ of FTP378+ WTrain short-duration maximal efforts — sprints, jumps.

Common workout targets at 250W FTP

These are the ranges you’ll see most often in structured training. Save this page or bookmark it as a quick reference.

Sweet Spot (88–94% FTP)
220–235 W
Threshold (95–100% FTP)
238–250 W
Over-unders (90% / 105%)
225–263 W
VO2max 3–5 min (110–120%)
275–300 W
30/30s (130–160%)
325–400 W
Recovery (≤55%)
≤ 138 W

Don’t know your FTP?

Draft a free training plan — we’ll suggest a starting FTP based on your experience and goal. When you start the 14-day trial we estimate the real number from your Strava power curve — no ramp test, no 20-minute test required.