When you upload a GPX to TrackLAB, the analysis splits into two big blocks. One looks at the terrain (RouteLAB), the other at what that terrain is going to do to your body (BioCenter). Understanding the difference is the quickest way to get the most out of the app.
TrackLAB RouteLAB — the route laboratory
RouteLAB takes the route apart piece by piece so you can see where time is won and where it's lost. There's nothing to set up: it's calculated automatically when the file is analysed.
Segments
The route is split into consistent segments (a climb, a long flat stretch, a technical descent). For each one you get distance, elevation, average gradient and expected pace. This is the view you use to settle your strategy: "push here, hold back there".
Paces and speeds
Average pace in the mountains is misleading: it blends 15% climbs with fast descents. RouteLAB separates those paces by terrain type so you're comparing like with like.
Automatic insights
Plain statements such as "62% of the elevation gain is in the first half" or "there are 4 km of continuous running above 10%". These are the warnings you'd normally only spot after you'd run the route.
TrackLAB BioCenter — your body on the route
BioCenter uses your profile (weight, level, sport) to translate the route into real effort. The more complete your profile, the sharper the estimates.
Training load (TSS)
A single number that sums up how much the session is going to cost you. It lets you compare very different outings: 20 km with 1,200 m of elevation gain can weigh more than 35 km on the flat.
Effort zones
How long you'll spend in each zone (recovery, endurance, threshold, high intensity) given the terrain. If an "easy" route comes back with half an hour at threshold, it isn't an easy run.
Accumulated fatigue
Fatigue isn't linear: kilometre 40 costs more than kilometre 10 even when the two are identical. BioCenter applies that progression, which is why the estimated times towards the end are slower than the ones at the start.
Calories and hydration
An estimate of energy expenditure based on your weight, the elevation gain and the duration. It's the starting point for the aid station plan.
Using them together
- Open RouteLAB and pick out the 2 or 3 segments that decide the route.
- Open BioCenter and look at total load and zones: is this an easy day or a hiding?
- Adjust your strategy: if the load is high and the elevation gain is front-loaded, set off more conservatively.
What you need
RouteLAB and BioCenter are PRO features, also available during your first free analyses. All you need is a GPX and a profile with your weight and level filled in.
Try it on your next route in the analyser.