Base targets derived from the CP/W′ model at short durations, transitioning to empirical power-duration curves for efforts beyond 60 minutes. Durability adjustment (CTL) activates progressively above 90 minutes. CP/P3 multiplier fine-tunes for aerobic ceiling compression, scaling to full effect above 180 minutes.

Assumes 90–110g CHO/hour fueling, well-paced swim, and athlete has the run durability to execute the associated run split. Reduce targets by 2–4% if heat, elevation, or underpacing in training are concerns.

Tau is calculated as W′ ÷ CP, expressed in seconds. It represents the athlete's anaerobic reserve relative to their aerobic ceiling — essentially, how many seconds they could sustain an all-out effort above CP if that reserve depleted linearly.

A lower tau (under ~35s) indicates a more oxidatively dominant athlete — their anaerobic reserve is small relative to their aerobic power. These athletes tend to excel at longer sustained efforts and respond well to volume-based training. A higher tau (over ~65s) indicates more glycolytic capacity relative to CP — these athletes carry more reserve above threshold and tend to be stronger at shorter, more intense efforts.

For pacing purposes, tau influences how aggressively the CP/P3 multiplier modulates the target. It also informs the phenotype label shown in the summary — Oxidative, Mixed Aerobic, or Glycolytic-Capable — which reflects the athlete's metabolic profile, not their fitness level.