1
|
Muyor JM, Antequera-Vique JA, Oliva-Lozano JM, Arrabal-Campos FM. Effect of incremental intensities on the spinal morphology and core muscle activation in competitive cyclists. Sports Biomech 2023; 22:597-620. [PMID: 35837675 DOI: 10.1080/14763141.2022.2097945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Cycling is a sport where cyclists predominantly adopt a sitting posture, with the trunk tilted forward. This posture requires a high volume of training and duration in several intensities of effort. This study aims to: 1) evaluate the behaviour of the thoracic and lumbar spine flexion and sacral inclination in the sagittal plane, the thoracic and lumbar spine flexion in the frontal plane, and the trunk torsion in the transverse plane; 2) compare the activation of the core muscles as the intensity of effort increases during an incremental test in cycling, and 3) identify which core muscle has a greater activation in each intensity zone. The spinal posture and the activation of the eight core muscles were evaluated in twelve competitive cyclists during incremental cycling intensities. Thoracic and lumbar spine flexion and sacral inclination statistically increased as the intensity of effort increased (Start < VT1 < VT2 < VO2max). A significant increase in muscle activation was observed in all core muscles evaluated as the intensity increased. The rectus abdominis showed statistically significant greater muscle activation than the other core muscles evaluated. In conclusion, as the intensity of effort in cycling increases, cyclists significantly increase the thoracic and lumbar spine flexion, the sacral inclination in the sagittal plane, the thoracic and lumbar spine flexion in the frontal plane, trunk rotation in the transverse plane, as well as the activation of the core muscles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José M Muyor
- Health Research Centre, University of Almería, Almería, Spain.,Laboratory of Kinesiology, Biomechanics and Ergonomics (KIBIOMER Lab), University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tang CK, Huang C, Liang KC, Cheng YJ, Hsieh YL, Shih YF, Lin HC. Effects of Different Pedaling Positions on Muscle Usage and Energy Expenditure in Amateur Cyclists. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12046. [PMID: 36231346 PMCID: PMC9564475 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inappropriate cycling positions may affect muscle usage strategy and raise the level of fatigue or risk of sport injury. Dynamic bike fitting is a growing trend meant to help cyclists select proper bikes and adjust them to fit their ergometry. The purpose of this study is to investigate how the "knee forward of foot" (KFOF) distance, an important dynamic bike fitting variable, influences the muscle activation, muscle usage strategy, and rate of energy expenditure during cycling. METHODS Six amateur cyclists were recruited to perform the short-distance ride test (SRT) and the graded exercise tests (GXT) with pedaling positions at four different KFOF distances (+20, 0, -20, and -40 mm). The surface electromyographic (EMG) and portable energy metabolism systems were used to monitor the muscle activation and energy expenditure. The outcome measures included the EMG root-mean-square (RMS) amplitudes of eight muscles in the lower extremity during the SRT, the regression line of the changes in the EMG RMS amplitude and median frequency (MF), and the heart rate and oxygen consumption during the GXT. RESULTS Our results revealed significant differences in the muscle activation of vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and semitendinosus among four different pedaling positions during the SRT. During GXT, no statistically significant differences in muscle usage strategy and energy expenditure were found among different KFOF. However, most cyclists had the highest rate of energy expenditure with either KFOF at -40 mm or 20 mm. CONCLUSIONS The KFOF distance altered muscle activation in the SRT; however, no significant influence on the muscle usage strategy was found in the GXT. A higher rate of energy expenditure in the extreme pedaling positions of KFOF was observed in most amateur cyclists, so professional assistance for proper bike fitting was recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Kai Tang
- Department of Physical Therapy and Assistive Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
| | - Ching Huang
- Department of Physical Therapy, Tao Yuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan 33004, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Cheng Liang
- Department of Physical Therapy and Graduate Institute of Rehabilitation Science, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jung Cheng
- Department of Physical Therapy and Graduate Institute of Rehabilitation Science, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Ling Hsieh
- Department of Physical Therapy and Graduate Institute of Rehabilitation Science, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Fen Shih
- Department of Physical Therapy and Assistive Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Chen Lin
- Department of Physical Therapy and Graduate Institute of Rehabilitation Science, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jongerius N, Wainwright B, Walker J, Bissas A. The biomechanics of maintaining effective force application across cycling positions. J Biomech 2022; 138:111103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.111103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
4
|
Scoz RD, Espindola TR, Santiago MF, de Oliveira PR, Alves BMO, Ferreira LMA, Amorim CF. Validation of a 3D Camera System for Cycling Analysis. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21134473. [PMID: 34208808 PMCID: PMC8271997 DOI: 10.3390/s21134473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kinematic analysis aimed toward scientific investigation or professional purposes is commonly unaffordable and complex to use. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to verify concurrent validation between a cycling-specific 3D camera and the gold-standard 3D general camera systems. METHODS Overall, 11 healthy amateur male triathletes were filmed riding their bicycles with Vicon 3D cameras and the Retul 3D cameras for bike fitting analysis simultaneously. All 18 kinematic measurements given by the bike fitting system were compared with the same data given by Vicon cameras through Pearson correlation (r), intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error measurements (SEM), and Bland-Altman (BA) analysis. Confidence intervals of 95% are given. RESULTS A very high correlation between cameras was found on six of 18 measurements. All other presented a high correlation between cameras (between 0.7 and 0.9). In total, six variables indicate a SEM of less than one degree between systems. Only two variables indicate a SEM higher than two degrees between camera systems. Overall, four measures indicate bias tendency according to BA. CONCLUSIONS The cycling-specific led-emitting 3D camera system tested revealed a high or very high degree of correlation with the gold-standard 3D camera system used in laboratory motion capture. In total, 14 measurements of this equipment could be used in sports medicine clinical practice and even by researchers of cycling studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robson Dias Scoz
- Master and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, Universidade Cidade de Sao Paulo (UNICID), Sao Paulo 03071-000, Brazil; (P.R.d.O.); (B.M.O.A.); (C.F.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Thiago Roberto Espindola
- Physical Therapy Department, Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina (UNISUL), Palhoça 88137-272, Brazil; (T.R.E.); (M.F.S.)
| | - Mateus Freitas Santiago
- Physical Therapy Department, Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina (UNISUL), Palhoça 88137-272, Brazil; (T.R.E.); (M.F.S.)
| | - Paulo Rui de Oliveira
- Master and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, Universidade Cidade de Sao Paulo (UNICID), Sao Paulo 03071-000, Brazil; (P.R.d.O.); (B.M.O.A.); (C.F.A.)
| | - Bruno Mazziotti Oliveira Alves
- Master and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, Universidade Cidade de Sao Paulo (UNICID), Sao Paulo 03071-000, Brazil; (P.R.d.O.); (B.M.O.A.); (C.F.A.)
| | | | - César Ferreira Amorim
- Master and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, Universidade Cidade de Sao Paulo (UNICID), Sao Paulo 03071-000, Brazil; (P.R.d.O.); (B.M.O.A.); (C.F.A.)
- KinesioLab, Instituto Piaget, 8300-025 Silves, Portugal;
- Laboratoire de Recherche BioNR, Université du Quebec a Chicoutimi, Saguenay, QC G7H 2B1, Canada
- Human Performance Laboratory, Physical Therapy Department, Florida International University—FIU, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Changes in the Trunk and Lower Extremity Kinematics Due to Fatigue Can Predispose to Chronic Injuries in Cycling. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18073719. [PMID: 33918282 PMCID: PMC8038191 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Kinematic analysis of the cycling position is a determining factor in injury prevention and optimal performance. Fatigue caused by high volume training can alter the kinematics of the lower body and spinal structures, thus increasing the risk of chronic injury. However, very few studies have established relationships between fatigue and postural change, being these in 2D analysis or incremental intensity protocols. Therefore, this study aimed to perform a 3D kinematic analysis of pedaling technique in a stable power fatigue protocol 23 amateur cyclists (28.3 ± 8.4 years) participated in this study. For this purpose, 3D kinematics in hip, knee, ankle, and lumbar joints, and thorax and pelvis were collected at three separate times during the protocol. Kinematic differences at the beginning, middle, and end of the protocol were analyzed for all joints using one-dimensional statistical parametric mapping. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in all the joints studied, but not all of them occur in the same planes or the same phase of the cycle. Some of the changes produced, such as greater lumbar and thoracic flexion, greater thoracic and pelvic tilt, or greater hip adduction, could lead to chronic knee and lumbar injuries. Therefore, bike fitting protocols should be carried out in fatigue situations to detect risk factor situations.
Collapse
|
6
|
The Effect of Upper-Body Positioning on the Aerodynamic–Physiological Economy of Time-Trial Cycling. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2021; 16:51-58. [DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2019-0547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Cycling time trials (TTs) are characterized by riders’ adopting aerodynamic positions to lessen the impact of aerodynamic drag on velocity. The optimal performance requirements for TTs likely exist on a continuum of rider aerodynamics versus physiological optimization, yet there is little empirical evidence to inform riders and coaches. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between aerodynamic optimization, energy expenditure, heat production, and performance. Methods: Eleven trained cyclists completed 5 submaximal exercise tests followed by a TT. Trials were completed at hip angles of 12° (more horizontal), 16°, 20°, 24° (more vertical), and their self-selected control position. Results: The largest decrease in power output at anaerobic threshold compared with control occurred at 12° (−16 [20] W, P = .03; effect size [ES] = 0.8). There was a linear relationship between upper-body position and heat production (R2 = .414, P = .04) but no change in mean body temperature, suggesting that, as upper-body position and hip angle increase, convective and evaporative cooling also rise. The highest aerodynamic–physiological economy occurred at 12° (384 [53] W·CdA−1·L−1·min−1, ES = 0.4), and the lowest occurred at 24° (338 [28] W·CdA−1·L−1·min−1, ES = 0.7), versus control (367 [41] W·CdA−1·L−1·min−1). Conclusion: These data suggest that the physiological cost of reducing hip angle is outweighed by the aerodynamic benefit and that riders should favor aerodynamic optimization for shorter TT events. The impact on thermoregulation and performance in the field requires further investigation.
Collapse
|
7
|
Wiggins CC, Baker SE, Shepherd JRA, Uchida K, Joyner MJ, Dominelli PB. Body position does not influence muscle oxygenation during submaximal cycling. TRANSLATIONAL SPORTS MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/tsm2.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chad C. Wiggins
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine Mayo Clinic Rochester MN USA
| | - Sarah E. Baker
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine Mayo Clinic Rochester MN USA
| | - John R. A. Shepherd
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine Mayo Clinic Rochester MN USA
| | - Koji Uchida
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine Mayo Clinic Rochester MN USA
| | - Michael J. Joyner
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine Mayo Clinic Rochester MN USA
| | - Paolo B. Dominelli
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine Mayo Clinic Rochester MN USA
- Department of Kinesiology University of Waterloo Waterloo ON Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Skovereng K, Aasvold LO, Ettema G. On the effect of changing handgrip position on joint specific power and cycling kinematics in recreational and professional cyclists. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237768. [PMID: 32813742 PMCID: PMC7444484 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In cycling, the utilization of the drops position (i.e. the lowest handlebar position relative to the ground) allows for reduced frontal area, likely improved aerodynamics and thus performance compared to the tops (i.e. the position producing the most upright trunk). The reduced trunk angle during seated submaximal cycling has been shown to influence cardiorespiratory factors but the effects on pedalling forces and joint specific power are unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of changing handgrip position on joint specific power and cycling kinematics at different external work rates in recreational and professional cyclists. Method Nine professional and nine recreational cyclists performed cycling bouts using three different handgrip positions and three external work rates (i.e. 100W, 200W and external work rate corresponding to the lactate threshold (WRlt)). Joint specific power was calculated from kinematic measurements and pedal forces using 2D inverse dynamics. Results We found increased hip joint power, decreased knee joint power and increased peak crank torque for the professional cyclist compared to the recreational cyclists, but only at WRlt where the professional cyclists were working at a higher external work rate. There was no main effect of changing handgrip position on any joint, but there was a small interaction effect of external work rate and handgrip position on hip joint power contribution (Generalized eta squared (ηg2) = 0.012). At 100W, changing handgrip position from the tops to the drops decreased the hip joint contribution (-2.0 ± 3.9 percentage points (pct)) and at the WRlt, changing handgrip position increased the hip joint power (1.6 ± 3.1 pct). There was a small effect of handgrip position with the drops leading to increased peak crank torque (ηg2 = 0.02), increased mean dorsiflexion (ηg2 = 0.05) and increased hip flexion (ηg2 = 0.31) compared to the tops. Discussion The present study demonstrates that there is no main effect of changing handgrip position on joint power. Although there seems to be a small effect on hip joint power when comparing across large ranges in external work rate, any potential negative performance effect would be outweighed by the aerodynamic benefit of the drops position.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Knut Skovereng
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Centre for Elite Sports Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Lorents Ola Aasvold
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Centre for Elite Sports Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Gertjan Ettema
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Centre for Elite Sports Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
State-of-the-art biomechanical laboratories provide a range of tools that allow precise measurements of kinematic, kinetic, motor and physiologic characteristics. Force sensors, motion capture devices and electromyographic recording measure the forces exerted at the pedal, saddle, and handlebar and the joint torques created by muscle activity. These techniques make it possible to obtain a detailed biomechanical analysis of cycling movements. However, despite the reasonable accuracy of such measures, cycling performance remains difficult to fully explain. There is an increasing demand by professionals and amateurs for various biomechanical assessment services. Most of the difficulties in understanding the link between biomechanics and performance arise because of the constraints imposed by the bicycle, human physiology and musculo-skeletal system. Recent studies have also pointed out the importance of evaluating not only output parameters, such as power output, but also intrinsic factors, such as the cyclist coordination. In this narrative review, we present various techniques allowing the assessment of a cyclist at a biomechanical level, together with elements of interpretation, and we show that it is not easy to determine whether a certain technique is optimal or not.
Collapse
|
10
|
Carlsson M, Wahrenberg V, Carlsson MS, Andersson R, Carlsson T. Gross and delta efficiencies during uphill running and cycling among elite triathletes. Eur J Appl Physiol 2020; 120:961-968. [PMID: 32236753 PMCID: PMC7181553 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04312-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the gross efficiency (GE) and delta efficiency (DE) during cycling and running in elite triathletes. METHODS Five male and five female elite triathletes completed two incremental treadmill tests with an inclination of 2.5° to determine their GE and DE during cycling and running. The speed increments between the 5-min stages were 2.4 and 0.6 km h-1 during the cycling and running tests, respectively. For each test, GE was calculated as the ratio between the mechanical work rate (MWR) and the metabolic rate (MR) at an intensity corresponding to a net increase in blood-lactate concentration of 1 mmol l-1. DE was calculated by dividing the delta increase in MWR by the delta increase in MR for each test. Pearson correlations and paired-sample t tests were used to investigate the relationships and differences, respectively. RESULTS There was a correlation between GEcycle and GErun (r = 0.66; P = 0.038; R2 = 0.44), but the correlation between DEcycle and DErun was not statistically significant (r = - 0.045; P = 0.90; R2 = 0.0020). There were differences between GEcycle and GErun (t = 80.8; P < 0.001) as well as between DEcycle and DErun (t = 27.8; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Elite triathletes with high GE during running also have high GE during cycling, when exercising at a treadmill inclination of 2.5°. For a moderate uphill incline, elite triathletes are more energy efficient during cycling than during running, independent of work rate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Carlsson
- School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Högskolegatan 2, 791 88, Falun, Sweden.,Swedish Unit for Metrology in Sports, Dalarna University, Högskolegatan 2, 791 88, Falun, Sweden
| | - Viktor Wahrenberg
- School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Högskolegatan 2, 791 88, Falun, Sweden
| | - Marie S Carlsson
- School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Högskolegatan 2, 791 88, Falun, Sweden
| | - Rasmus Andersson
- School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Högskolegatan 2, 791 88, Falun, Sweden
| | - Tomas Carlsson
- School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Högskolegatan 2, 791 88, Falun, Sweden. .,Swedish Unit for Metrology in Sports, Dalarna University, Högskolegatan 2, 791 88, Falun, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Hip pathology is common amongst athletes and the general population. The mechanics of cycling have the potential to exacerbate symptomatic hip pathology and progress articular pathology in patients with morphologic risk factors such as femoroacetabular impingement. A professional fit of the bicycle to the individual which aims to optimize hip joint function can allow patients with hip pathology to exercise in comfort when alternative high impact exercise such as running may not be possible. Conversely improper fit of the bicycle can lead to hip symptoms in otherwise healthy individuals who present with risk factors for hip pain. Accordingly a bike fit can form part of the overall management strategy in a cyclist with hip symptoms. The purpose of this clinical commentary is to discuss hip pathomechanics with respect to cycling, bicycle fitting methodology and the options available to a physical therapist to optimize hip mechanics during the pedaling action.
Collapse
|
12
|
Walsh JA. The Rise of Elite Short-Course Triathlon Re-Emphasises the Necessity to Transition Efficiently from Cycling to Running. Sports (Basel) 2019; 7:sports7050099. [PMID: 31035687 PMCID: PMC6571801 DOI: 10.3390/sports7050099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Transitioning efficiently between cycling and running is considered an indication of overall performance, and as a result the cycle–run (C–R) transition is one of the most researched areas of triathlon. Previous studies have thoroughly investigated the impact of prior cycling on running performance. However, with the increasing number of short-course events and the inclusion of the mixed relay at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, efficiently transitioning from cycle–run has been re-emphasised and with it, any potential limitations to running performance among elite triathletes. This short communication provides coaches and sports scientists a review of the literature detailing the negative effects of prior variable-cycling on running performance experienced among elite, short-course and Olympic distance triathletes; as well as discussing practical methods to minimise any negative impact of cycling on running performance. The current literature suggests that variable-cycling negatively effects running ability in at least some elite triathletes and that improving swimming performance, drafting during cycling and C–R training at race intensity could improve an athlete’s triathlon running performance. It is recommended that future research clearly define the performance level, competitive format of the experimental population and use protocols that are specific to the experimental population in order to improve the training and practical application of the research findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joel A Walsh
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Blocken B, van Druenen T, Toparlar Y, Andrianne T. CFD analysis of an exceptional cyclist sprint position. SPORTS ENGINEERING 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s12283-019-0304-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
14
|
|
15
|
Kordi M, Fullerton C, Passfield L, Parker Simpson L. Influence of upright versus time trial cycling position on determination of critical power and W' in trained cyclists. Eur J Sport Sci 2018; 19:192-198. [PMID: 30009673 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2018.1495768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Body position is known to alter power production and affect cycling performance. The aim of this study was to compare mechanical power output in two riding positions, and to calculate the effects on critical power (CP) and W' estimates. Seven trained cyclists completed three peak power output efforts and three fixed-duration trial (3-, 5- and 12-min) riding with their hands on the brake lever hoods (BLH), or in a time trial position (TTP). A repeated-measures analysis of variance showed that mean power output during the 5-min trial was significantly different between BLH and TTP positions, resulting in a significantly lower estimate of CP, but not W', for the TTP trial. In addition, TTP decreased the performance during each trial and increased the percentage difference between BLH and TTP with greater trial duration. There were no differences in pedal cadence or heart rate during the 3-min trial; however, TTP results for the 12-min trial showed a significant fall in pedal cadence and a significant rise in heart rate. The findings suggest that cycling position affects power output and influences consequent CP values. Therefore, cyclists and coaches should consider the cycling position used when calculating CP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Kordi
- a English Institute of Sport , Manchester Institute of Health and Performance , Manchester , UK.,b Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation , Northumbria University , Newcastle upon Tyne , UK.,e British Cycling , National Cycling Centre , Manchester , UK
| | - Chris Fullerton
- c School of Sport and Exercise Science , University of Kent , Kent , UK
| | - Louis Passfield
- c School of Sport and Exercise Science , University of Kent , Kent , UK
| | - Len Parker Simpson
- c School of Sport and Exercise Science , University of Kent , Kent , UK.,d Scottish Institute of Sport , Stirling , UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Charlton JM, Ramsook AH, Mitchell RA, Hunt MA, Puyat JH, Guenette JA. Respiratory Mechanical and Cardiorespiratory Consequences of Cycling with Aerobars. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2017; 49:2578-2584. [PMID: 28767523 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000001393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Aerobars place a cyclist in a position where the trunk is flexed forward and the elbows are close to the midline of the body. This position is known to improve cycling aerodynamics and time trial race performance compared with upright cycling positions. However, the aggressive nature of this position may have important cardiorespiratory and metabolic consequences. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the respiratory mechanical, ventilatory, metabolic, and sensory consequences of cycling while using aerobars during laboratory-based cycling. METHODS Eleven endurance-trained male cyclists (age, 26 ± 9 yr; V˙O2peak, 55 ± 5 mL·kg·min) were recruited. Visit 1 consisted of an incremental cycling test to determine peak power output. Visit 2 consisted of 6-min bouts of constant load cycling at 70% of peak incremental power output in the aerobar position, drop position, and upright position while grasping the brake hoods. Metabolic and ventilatory responses were measured using a commercially available metabolic cart, and respiratory pressures were measured using an esophageal catheter. RESULTS Cycling in the aerobar position significantly increased the work of breathing (Wb), power of breathing (Pb), minute ventilation, ventilatory equivalent for oxygen and carbon dioxide, and transdiaphragmatic pressure compared with the upright position. Increases in the Wb and Pb in the aerobars relative to the upright position were strongly correlated with the degree of thoracic restriction, measured as the shoulder-to-aerobar width ratio (Wb: r = 0.80, P = 0.01; Pb: r = 0.69, P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Aerobars significantly increase the mechanical cost of breathing and leads to greater ventilatory inefficiency compared with upright cycling. Future work is needed to optimize aerobar width to minimize the respiratory mechanical consequences while optimizing aerodynamics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesse M Charlton
- 1Department of Physical Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA; 2Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, Providence Health Care Research Institute, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA; and 3Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, Providence Health Care Research Institute, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
|
18
|
Wright RL. Positive Pacing Strategies Are Utilized by Elite Male and Female Para-cyclists in Short Time Trials in the Velodrome. Front Physiol 2016; 6:425. [PMID: 26834643 PMCID: PMC4716664 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2015.00425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In para-cycling, competitors are classed based on functional impairment resulting in cyclists with neurological and locomotor impairments competing against each other. In Paralympic competition, classes are combined by using a factoring adjustment to race times to produce the overall medallists. Pacing in short-duration track cycling events is proposed to utilize an “all-out” strategy in able-bodied competition. However, pacing in para-cycling may vary depending on the level of impairment. Analysis of the pacing strategies employed by different classification groups may offer scope for optimal performance; therefore, this study investigated the pacing strategy adopted during the 1-km time trial (TT) and 500-m TT in elite C1 to C3 para-cyclists and able-bodied cyclists. Total times and intermediate split times (125-m intervals; measured to 0.001 s) were obtained from the C1-C3 men's 1-km TT (n = 28) and women's 500-m TT (n = 9) from the 2012 Paralympic Games and the men's 1-km TT (n = 19) and women's 500-m TT (n = 12) from the 2013 UCI World Track Championships from publically available video. Split times were expressed as actual time, factored time (for the para-cyclists) and as a percentage of total time. A two-way analysis of variance was used to investigate differences in split times between the different classifications and the able-bodied cyclists in the men's 1-km TT and between the para-cyclists and able-bodied cyclists in the women's 500-m TT. The importance of position at the first split was investigated with Kendall's Tau-b correlation. The first 125-m split time was the slowest for all cyclists, representing the acceleration phase from a standing start. C2 cyclists were slowest at this 125-m split, probably due to a combination of remaining seated in this acceleration phase and a high proportion of cyclists in this group being trans-femoral amputees. Not all cyclists used aero-bars, preferring to use drop, flat or bullhorn handlebars. Split times increased in the later stages of the race, demonstrating a positive pacing strategy. In the shorter women's 500-m TT, rank at the first split was more strongly correlated with final position than in the longer men's 1-km TT. In conclusion, a positive pacing strategy was adopted by the different para-cycling classes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Wright
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|