What Is Normalized Power and How Is It Calculated on My Garmin Device?

Normalized Power (NP) is a power averaging method, measured in watts, used to compensate for changes in ride conditions for a more accurate depiction of power expenditure.

Conventional power measurement is based on a steady resistance. Riding on a bike trainer or stationary cycle provides a steady resistance allowing conventional methods to give you an accurate power reading. However, riding outdoors produces changes in resistance (e.g., changes in elevation, terrain, or wind). NP takes into account the changing resistances to provide more accurate power output data.

The purpose this serves is directly related to your training. NP takes into account your body's reaction to change in exercise intensity due to changing resistance. This allows for a more accurate representation of your power output which in turn allows you to train within more realistic power confines. This gives way to a more productive training session.

Where Can I View Normalized Power?

To confirm that your device can display and record NP, refer to your owner's manual. When using a compatible device, NP will be available as an optional bike activity data field, and it will appear in your Garmin Connect™ account on the bike activity's details page within the Power section. If your device is compatible but NP does not appear as an optional data field (typically under Power > Advanced), update your device's software using the Garmin Express™ program.

NOTE: The Venu® 3 and Venu® 3S watches will provide Normalized Power but will not provide a data field on the watch. 

For more information on NP, view the TrainingPeaks website.

Normalized Power (NP), Intensity Factor (IF), and Training Stress Score (TSS) are registered trademarks of Peaksware, LLC.