REN uses three key thresholds (like VO₂max pace, Critical Speed, and Aerobic Threshold) to set your workout intensities.
These thresholds are not fixed – they evolve with you.
REN updates them in three ways:
From your everyday training data
From dedicated performance tests
From manual changes you make in Settings
Here’s how each one works, and how it affects when tests are planned.
1. Thresholds adapting from training data
Every time you train and give feedback, REN gets a better picture of your current fitness.
From your normal workouts and races, REN can detect that:
You’re running faster at similar effort
You’re holding paces longer
Your training load and response suggest improved capacity
When the evidence is strong enough, REN will quietly upgrade your thresholds (for example a slightly faster Critical Speed or VO₂max pace).
What happens to tests when thresholds improve from training?
If your thresholds are already improving based on training data, REN will often:
Postpone a planned performance test
Why? Because if we already see you’re progressing, running a test purely to “prove it” doesn’t add much value – it just costs energy and recovery.
In short:
When training data shows clear progress, REN delays tests to avoid useless or redundant testing.
2. Thresholds from performance tests
REN also schedules specific performance tests (for example time trials or structured benchmark sessions).
When you complete one of these:
REN uses the test data to recalculate your thresholds
Your training paces update to match your new fitness
You usually won’t see another test scheduled immediately after
No back-to-back tests
If you’ve just executed a test, REN knows you’ve already given a strong performance signal. It will not plan a new test right away, because:
Tests are demanding
You need time to train and adapt between them
Frequent maximum efforts increase fatigue and injury risk
So after a test, expect a period of normal training before the next one appears.
3. Manual changes you make to thresholds
You’re always free to adjust your thresholds yourself if you:
Have lab results
Got values from another platform or coach
Know the numbers are off for any reason
You can do this in Settings → Thresholds by:
Editing the pace directly, or
Using Recalculate with race times/PRs
REN will use your new values right away for workouts.
Important: manual changes do not change test planning
If you manually change your thresholds:
REN does not automatically postpone or cancel upcoming tests
The existing test schedule stays as planned
Why? Because manual edits are your choice, not a sign your body has actually demonstrated a new performance level in REN’s data.
So tests remain useful to:
Confirm that the new values fit your actual fitness
Fine-tune and validate what you’ve entered
Putting it all together
Your thresholds in REN can change via:
Training data → thresholds adapt; tests may be postponed if you’re clearly improving already
Completed tests → thresholds are recalculated; new tests are not scheduled again immediately
Manual edits → thresholds update instantly, but test planning does not change
The goal is to:
Keep your paces accurate and up to date
Avoid unnecessary tests that add fatigue without new insight
Still use tests at smart intervals to confirm and refine your training zones
You train, REN observes, tests when it’s useful, and keeps your thresholds aligned with the runner you are right now.