Understanding Fitness, Form, and Fatigue Discrepancies Between Athletica, Intervals.icu, and Strava

Overview: Athletica calculates fitness, form, and fatigue metrics using a proprietary algorithm that integrates recent training load, recovery, and your personalized data. However, discrepancies can arise when comparing these metrics to platforms like Intervals.icu or Strava. This article explains the key differences and provides guidance on interpreting your data within Athletica.

Why Are My Metrics Different in Athletica?

1. Algorithm Differences

Each platform uses its own formula to calculate fitness, form, and function. For example:

• Athletica incorporates a unique AI-driven model based on the Bannister supercompensation theory.
• Intervals.icu and Strava rely on different models, such as Performance Management Charts (PMC), which use Training Stress Scores (TSS) and other variables.

These methodological differences mean that your metrics will not directly align across platforms.

How Athletica Calculates Metrics

Fitness:

Athletica’s fitness metric reflects your long-term training load. It’s influenced by the cumulative effect of workouts over time and adapts dynamically based on your training intensity and volume.

Form:

Form represents your readiness to perform at a high level. It balances fitness against fatigue and is highly personalized in Athletica to reflect your recovery patterns.

Fatigue:

Fatigue reflects your recent training capacity and potential for improvement. It’s a shorter-term indicator that can fluctuate more than fitness or form.

Possible Reasons for Discrepancies

1. Data Import Issues

If your workout history is incomplete, metrics may not fully capture your recent training.

• Ensure all your workouts are synced correctly from your tracking device (e.g., Garmin, Zwift).
• Check for missing or incomplete data within your Athletica calendar.

2. Different Timeframes

Athletica may weigh recent workouts more heavily than other platforms, leading to differences in calculations.

3. Variability in Metrics

Metrics like Training Load, Acute Load, and Chronic Load might have different definitions or weights, leading to variations across platforms.

4. Training Load by Modality

One of the reasons fitness, fatigue, and form values might differ between platforms like TP, Intervals, Strava, and Athletica is that Athletica calculates training load separately for each modality (run, bike, swim, combined). You can select the different modalities in the Your Performance Potential chart to assess specific values. Importantly, the values shown in Athletica reflect the primary race you’re preparing for: if it’s a marathon, Athletica displays “run” fitness; if it’s a triathlon, it shows “combined” fitness. 

5. Training Load Calculation Methods

When it comes to calculating training load, Athletica uses a variety of methods depending on the session modality and the data available. For instance:

• For cycling, power is used if available. If power isn’t available, heart rate (HR) is used. If neither power nor HR is available, session RPE (sRPE) is used.
• For running, speed is used if available. If speed isn’t available, heart rate (HR) is used. If neither speed nor HR is available, session RPE (sRPE) is used.

Additionally, training load calculations are influenced by your threshold values. If platforms like Strava, Intervals, or TP are not using the same thresholds as Athletica, it could result in discrepancies.

How to Validate Your Data

1. Check Calendar Data: Review your Athletica calendar to ensure all past activities are properly logged.
2. Review Training Zones: Ensure your training zones in Athletica match your other platforms for consistent analysis.
3. Sync Devices Regularly: Regular syncing ensures data continuity and accuracy.

Still Have Questions?

If you’re still unsure about the discrepancies, our team is here to help. Contact our support team at support@athletica.ai 

Helpful Tip

Use Athletica’s metrics as part of a holistic approach to your training. While differences across platforms are normal, consistency in using one system—like Athletica—is key to tracking your progress effectively.