Testimony of Aurélien Gabriele
Aurélien GABRIELE, 62 years old
11,000 km/year
ZoneX test (carried out at the start of the 2025 season):
SV1: 192 watts – 127 bpm
SV2: 279 watts – 154 bpm
PMA season 2024: 379 watts – 5.8 w/kg
Ventilatory Threshold Testing with ZoneX from PAIRFS
During my training, I always seek to optimize my performance and better understand my physical limits, to have more fun on the bike and improve my health. A few weeks ago, during a week of Nordic skiing in Norway, my friend and coach Olivier told me about a Grenoble startup, PAIRFS, which launched a new product called ZoneX . This portable, easy-to-use device allows you to precisely measure the SV1 and SV2 ventilatory thresholds, essential for determining your training zones (Coggan type). An ideal alternative to the lactate test, according to its designers.
I had already performed respiratory tests in the laboratory, but I hadn’t repeated them, mainly because it required going to the hospital, an inconvenient and time-consuming process. Furthermore, the recommendations I received hadn’t really helped define my training zones.
Back in France, I contacted Pierre Jallon, the CEO of PAIRFS, to offer to test the product. He readily accepted, eager to get detailed feedback on the test. After a quick introduction to the device and software, I tested ZoneX on my home trainer. It was as simple as testing on Strava, with a device worn on my face.
A seamless, non-invasive experience
The ZoneX ventilatory threshold test is much less invasive than the lactate test, which requires several blood samples to be taken during exercise. The ventilation test requires no needle sticks and is painless and discomfort-free. I was able to fully concentrate on the exercise without any distractions.
The test lasts about 20 minutes, including the warm-up.
What really struck me was the ability to obtain real-time data. During exercise, the device measures my ventilation, oxygen consumption, and CO2 production. This instant information allows me to precisely track my physiological responses, which is a real help in understanding how my body reacts to each intensity.
A better understanding of my physical abilities
The test allowed me to better understand my aerobic and anaerobic capacities, and to immediately identify my SV1 and SV2 transition thresholds. This data is essential for adapting my training plan, defining my power and heart rate zones, and estimating the time I can maintain in each zone.
Instead of simply waiting for fatigue, I now have a clear idea of when my body starts to accumulate toxins. Thanks to this test, I’ve easily been able to adapt my training to improve my performance and better manage my energy, whether during long cycling sessions with friends or cyclosportives.
Why did this test convince me?
What really convinced me was how accurately this test reflects my aerobic and anaerobic capacities. It gives me a complete and relevant picture of my physical abilities, much more accurate than the lactate test. This helps me better structure my training, optimize my effort, and maximize my long-term results.
ZoneX is a true revolution for anyone looking to understand their physical thresholds in a precise and non-invasive way. Thanks to this test, I can now train my body more intelligently and effectively.