Top 20% finish for the Etape du Tour
David thought endless long rides were the key to success. With Njinga’s smart personalsied training, he cracked the Etape du Tour in 40°C heat, finishing top 2% in his age group.
He discovered that riding smarter, not harder, unlocked his best performance yet.
- FTP +36 watts (234w → 270w)
- Resting heart rate reduced by 8bpm
- 3.01 → 4.37 w/kg.
- Finished in the top 2% for his age group at Etape du Tour
- Elevate
Journey to the Etape du Tour
David had entered the legendary Etape du Tour - 170km and 4,500m of climbing - to test himself. But like many riders training alone, he’d plateaued. Despite putting in long rides every week, his power had stalled, fatigue was high, and progress felt out of reach.
“I hit a point where I was training most days but not seeing any improvement. Every climb felt harder, and I couldn’t understand why. I knew I needed structure, a proper plan, and professional guidance”
The Njinga Difference
Working 1-to-1 with Njinga Head Coach Togo, David swapped “all-out” sessions for a smarter approach:
- Zone 2 aerobic base on flats, Zone 4 efforts on climbs
- Pedal technique and efficiency drills
- Recovery, fuelling, and mindset support
At first, it felt completely different to his old way of training. But within weeks, he noticed the changes: more power, lower heart rate, and new enjoyment in his riding.
The Results
The transformation was dramatic:
+36W FTP gain (234 → 270W)
Power-to-weight improved from 3.01 to 4.37 w/kg
Resting HR dropped by 8 bpm with faster recovery
Etape du Tour result: Top 20% overall, top 2% in his age group
Alpe d’Huez climb: Top 10% fastest riders in searing 40°C heat
On the day, David not only finished but smashed it. He powered through the heat pushing out over 500 watts and finishing in the top 5% in the sprint segment finish.
What’s Next
Since the Etape, David has continued with a plan focused on Zone 2 aerobic work, and the results keep coming. His power-to-weight ratio has climbed to 4.37 w/kg, up from 3.01 just a year ago.
He has smashed not one but 4 big events in 2 years. Etape du Tour, Maratona dles Dolomites, Etape Lochness and Etape Caledonia.
The biggest lesson? Progress doesn’t come from riding full gas every time. With Togo’s structured plan and guidance, David has discovered a smarter way to train - one that builds lasting power and keeps improving his performance week after week.
"It's amazing how much more one can achieve with the right professional help, thanks Togo."