Critical power as an indicator of endurance in sports: methods, models, applications

Critical power (CP) has emerged as a leading physiological indicator for delineating the boundary between stable and unstable metabolic states during medium–duration exercise. It reflects the highest intensity an athlete can sustain over time without progressive fatigue accumulation. In cyclic sports such as cycling, running, and rowing, CP serves as a practical tool for assessing endurance, structuring training programs, and modeling competitive strategies. This paper reviews current approaches to CP assessment, emphasizing its physiological validity, methodological simplicity, and applicability in field conditions, particularly within the constraints of Ukrainian sports infrastructure. CP correlates with VO₂max, MLSS, and lactate thresholds, yet offers advantages in non–invasive field testing. The integration of CP with W′ (anaerobic work capacity above CP) enables detailed modeling of high–intensity performance and interval strategies. The article discusses various computational models (hyperbolic, linear, 3–minute all–out) and highlights the importance of standardized protocols, individualization, and multi–parametric monitoring. The potential for local adaptation of CP/W′ methodologies, digital integration via Excel–based tools, and development of national endurance standards is underscored.