Changes in blood volume and oxygenation level in a working muscle during a crank cycle

PURPOSE: This study examined circulatory and metabolic changes in a working muscle during a crank cycle in a pedaling exercise with near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). METHODS: NIRS measurements sampled under stable metabolic and cadence conditions during incremental pedaling exercise were reordered according to the crank angles whose signals were obtained in eight male subjects. RESULTS: The reordered changes in muscle blood volume during a crank cycle demonstrated a pattern change that corresponded to changes in pedal force and electrical muscle activity for pedal thrust. The top and bottom peaks for muscle blood volume change at work intensities of 180 W and 220 W always preceded (88 +/- 32 and 92 +/- 23 ms, respectively) those for muscle oxygenation changes. Significant differences in the level of NIRS parameters (muscle blood volume and oxygenation level) among work intensities were noted with a common shape in curve changes related to pedal force. In addition, a temporary increase in muscle blood volume following a pedal thrust was detected at work intensities higher than moderate. This temporary increase in muscle blood volume might reflect muscle blood flow restriction caused by pedal thrusts. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that circulatory and metabolic conditions of a working muscle can be easily affected during pedaling exercise by work intensity. The present method, reordering of NIRS parameters against crank angle, serves as a useful measure in providing additional findings of circulatory dynamics and metabolic changes in a working muscle during pedaling exercise.     

Hemodynamic responses to increasing cycle cadence in 11-year old boys: role of the skeletal muscle pump.

Previous studies in adults have indicated a rise in the metabolic cost of increasing cycling cadence at constant work rates. This study examined the metabolic and cardiovascular responses to pedaling rates of 41, 63, and 83 rpm at both zero-load and 50-watts load in 12 prepubertal boys. Increasing cadence from 41 to 83 rpm produced a 52.9% and 23.1% rise in gross energy expenditure in the two work conditions, respectively, despite the constant external work rate. This augmented energy expenditure was accounted for entirely by internal work, as no changes in work metabolic cost (difference between loaded and unloaded cycling) were observed as cadence increased. The rise in energy expenditure with higher pedaling rate during the zero load and 50 watt conditions was accompanied by increases in both heart rate and stroke volume. Arterial venous oxygen difference did not change with increased cadence but was significantly higher with loaded cycling, suggesting that skeletal muscle pump effectiveness is negatively influenced by increased load but not by increased pedaling rate.     

Aerobic and anaerobic power characteristics of off-road cyclists

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to describe the relationship between anaerobic power at different pedaling frequencies (including the optimal cadence) and aerobic power in off-road cyclists (CYC; N = 25) and sports students, who did not perform specific cycle exercise more than two times per week (CON; N = 60). METHODS: To describe the aerobic power, we measured the maximal power output (W(max)) and the power output at the fixed lactate threshold at 4 mmol x L(-1) (W(L4)) obtained during a maximal aerobic power cycling test. To describe anaerobic power output, we measured the average power output (IsoW(mean)) over a range from 50 to 140 rpm by using a 10-s sprint on an isokinetic cycle ergometer. RESULTS: For the 10-s anaerobic test, CON and CYC showed a peak power output (IsoW(peak)) of 13.3 +/- 1.4 and 14.9 +/- 1.1 W x kg(-1), respectively. IsoW(peak) corresponded to an optimal cadence of 100 +/- 9.3 rpm for CON and 100 +/- 8.7 rpm for CYC. There was a significant difference (P < 0.001) in the W(max):IsoW(peak) (W(aerobic):W(anaerobic)) ratio between CON (32 +/- 4.5%) and CYC (38 +/- 3.9%). Significant differences among group means were identified using an ANOVA test and a post hoc analysis. The off-road cyclists showed a significantly higher IsoW(mean) at all pedaling frequencies and at the optimal cadence (P < 0.01). There was a modest relationship between W(max) and IsoW(peak) in both groups (CON r = 0.53; CYC r = 0.64; P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Anaerobic power values are important components associated with cycle performance in both noncyclists and off-road cyclists. However, the results of the present study demonstrated the usefulness of the power index in the physiological evaluation of off-road cyclists, as it gives information on the proportion of aerobic to anaerobic energy contribution.     

Bilateral pedaling asymmetry during a simulated 40-km cycling time-trial

AIM: This study investigated the pedaling asymmetry during a 40-km cycling time-trial (TT). METHODS: Six sub-elite competitive male cyclists pedaled a SRM Training Systems cycle ergometer throughout a simulated 40-km TT. A SRM scientific crank dynamometer was used to measure the bilateral crank torque (N.m) and pedaling cadence (rpm). All data were analyzed into 4 stages with equal length obtained according to total time. Comparisons between each stage of the 40-km TT were made by an analysis of variance (ANOVA). Dominant (DO) and non-dominant (ND) crank peak torque asymmetry was determined by the equation: asymmetry index (AI%)=[(DO-ND)/DO] 100. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to verify the relationship between exercise intensity, mean and crank peak torque. RESULTS: The crank peak torque was significantly (P<0.05) greater in the 4th stage compared with other stages. During the stages 2 and 3, was observed the AI% of 13.51% and 17.28%, respectively. Exercise intensity (%VO(2max)) was greater for stage 4 (P<0.05) and was highly correlated with mean and crank peak torque (r=0.97 and r=0.92, respectively) for each stage. CONCLUSIONS: The DO limb was always responsible for the larger crank peak torque. It was concluded that pedaling asymmetry is present during a simulated 40-km TT and an increase on crank torque output and exercise intensity elicits a reduction in pedaling asymmetry.     

Functional output improvement in FES cycling by means of forced smooth pedaling

PURPOSE: Investigation of the influence of forced smooth and normal (nonsmooth) pedaling on the functional output of outdoor functional neuromuscular electrical stimulation (FES)-propelled cycling of spinal cord-injured subjects. SUBJECTS: Twelve subjects with complete spinal cord injury (T4-T12) and limited previous FES training. METHOD: Each subject participated in two separate outdoor sessions: once while pedaling a tricycle in a fixed gear, and a second time while free pedaling the same tricycle; both times with FES. Data on distance covered until exhaustion, cadence, and pedal forces were collected. Energy balance calculations led to evaluations of jerk loss and joint-related concentric/eccentric work. RESULTS: First-trial and total session distances were 68 and 103% longer, respectively, in the forced smooth cycling session than in the free cycling session (P < 0.001). Significantly more additional crank work (accompanied by increased concentric work production) was generated in nonsteady cycling phases to overcome increased jerk losses during free than during fixed-gear pedaling. During fixed-gear pedaling, timing and joint location of muscle work generation were more similar to the cycling of able-bodied subjects than during freewheel pedaling, because most work was generated by knee extensors in the power phase during the former pedaling mode. CONCLUSIONS: The superiority of forced smooth cycling to free cycling, as regards functional output distance, is based on less energy expenditure (less jerk loss and muscle tension) and on more efficient production of energy (more efficient timing and joint location of work production). Some energetic mechanisms that are advantageous for fixed-gear cycling act predominantly in unsteady phases; others work continuously during all phases of cycling.     

Muscle recruitment pattern in cycling: a review

Studies have indicated that the muscles work in a systematic and coordinated way to generate and direct power from the human body to the crank during cycling. Understanding of the muscle involvement or recruitment pattern during cycling will be useful for developing specific and effective muscle training and rehabilitation programs for cyclists. Moreover, it will also facilitate the use of the cycling ergometer for therapeutic purpose. This paper reviews the current literature on muscle recruitment pattern during cycling and the effects of muscle fatigue, cadence, riding posture and seat height on this recruitment pattern. In the power phase or ‘downstroke’, the hip, knee and ankle joints extend simultaneously for the pushing action, whilst in the recovery phase or ‘upstroke’, they flex together to pull the pedal back to the top dead center of the crank cycle. Recent studies have indicated that in this repeated sequence, the mono-articular muscles are mainly involved in the generation of positive work whereas the biarticular muscles are responsible for regulating force transmission. Some muscles co-activate during cycling to provide synergistic actions and other functional needs.Muscle fatigue is an important factor affecting cycling performance. It has been reported that muscle fatigue in the lower body would alter the cycling motion and muscle activation pattern. Therefore, studying the change of muscle activation pattern during cycling at the fatigued level may shed light on the sequel of local muscle fatigue. A muscle training program specifically for cycling can then be designed accordingly. Additionally, the change of cadence during cycling will affect the muscle recruitment pattern. There is a unique cadence that minimizes the muscle activation level at a specific level of power output. This cadence will increase as the power output increases. The change of riding posture from sitting to standing renders the pelvis unsupported and the body weight will assist the power phase of pedalling. Similarly, changes to the seat height will alter the posture which will affect the directions of muscle actions to the crank, thus changing the muscle recruitment pattern.     

Why does power output decrease at high pedaling rates during sprint cycling?

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to partly explain, from electromyographical (EMG) activity, the decrease in power output beyond optimal pedaling rate (PRopt) during sprint cycling. METHODS: Eleven cyclists performed four 8-s nonisokinetic sprints on a cycle ergometer against four randomized friction loads (0.5, twice 0.75, and 0.9 N x kg(-1) of body mass). Power output and EMG activity of both right and left gluteus maximus, rectus femoris, biceps femoris, and vastus lateralis were measured continuously. Individual crank cycles were analyzed. Crank angles corresponding to the beginning and the peak of each downstroke and EMG burst onset and offset crank angles were computed. Moreover, crank angles corresponding to the beginning and the end of muscle force response were determined assuming a 100-ms lag time between the EMG activity and the relevant force response (or electromechanical delay). RESULTS: Muscle coordination (EMG onset and offset) was altered at high pedaling rates. Thus, crank angles corresponding to muscle force response increased significantly with pedaling rate. Consequently, at pedaling rates higher than the optimal pedaling rate, force production of lower-limb extensor muscles was shifted later in the crank cycle. Mechanical data confirmed that downstrokes occurred later in the crank cycle when pedaling rate increased. Hence, force was produced on the pedals during less effective crank cycle sectors of the downstroke and during the beginning of the upstroke. CONCLUSION: During nonisokinetic sprint cycling, the decrease in power output when pedaling rates increased beyond PRopt may be partly explained by suboptimal muscle coordination.     

A physiological comparison of synchronous and asynchronous hand cycling

The purpose of this study was to compare submaximal physiological responses (oxygen uptake, ventilation, heart rate) and gross mechanical efficiency between synchronous and asynchronous hand cycling at different cadences. Thirteen non-disabled men (22.4 +/- 1.6 yr) performed two submaximal exercise tests on a treadmill, using synchronous and asynchronous crank settings in counter balanced order. Tests were performed using a commercially available hand cycle unit that was attached to a hand rim wheelchair. Each test consisted of five 5-min exercise bouts at 36, 47, 55, 65, and 84 rpm. ANOVA for repeated measures showed a significant effect of crank mode (p < 0.001) and cadence (p < 0.001), as well as an interaction effect between both (p < 0.01). Physiological responses were lower, and efficiency higher, in synchronous versus asynchronous hand cycling at all cadences. Post-hoc analysis of the (overall) effect of cadence showed significantly higher physiological responses and lower efficiency at the higher (84 vs. 65 rpm and 65 vs. 55 rpm) and lower (36 vs. 47 rpm) cadences. The interaction effect indicates that the effect of crank mode was dependent on cadence, showing a larger difference between synchronous and asynchronous hand cycling at 84 vs. 65 rpm and at 36 vs. 47 rpm. It is concluded that, in contrast to previous results in arm crank ergometry, synchronous hand cycling is less strenuous and more efficient than asynchronous hand cycling.     

Effects of pedaling speed on the power-duration relationship for high-intensity exercise

Seven males (age = 20.4 +/- 0.3 yr) each performed a total of eight exhaustive exercise bouts (four at 60 rpm and four at 100 rpm) in order to determine the influence of pedaling frequency on the parameters of the power-duration relationship for high-intensity cycle ergometry. The power-endurance time data for each subject at each rpm were fit by nonlinear regression to extract parameters of the hyperbolic: (P - theta PA). t = W', where P = power output, t = time to exhaustion, and theta PA and W' are constants. theta PA (the power asymptote, in watts (W] reflects an inherent characteristic of aerobic energy production during exercise, above which only a finite amount of work (W', in joules) can be performed, regardless of the rate at which the work is performed. theta PA at 60 rpm (235 +/- 8 W) was significantly (15.9 +/- 4.5%, P less than 0.05) greater than theta PA at 100 rpm (204 +/- 11 W), thus confirming our hypothesis that endurance would be compromised while cycling at the higher pedaling frequency. In contrast, W' was not significantly (P greater than 0.05) affected by cadence (16.8 +/- 1.7 kJ at 60 rpm vs 18.9 +/- 2.2 kJ at 100 rpm). Our data are consistent with the implications of previous investigations which demonstrated a greater cardiorespiratory and blood/muscle lactate response during constant-power exercise while cycling at high vs low rpm and indicate that the theoretical maximum sustainable power (i.e., theta PA) during cycle ergometry in untrained males is greater at 60 rpm than at 100 rpm.     

Tibiofemoral joint forces during ergometer cycling

Six healthy subjects pedaled on a weight-braked bicycle ergometer at different workloads, pedaling rates, saddle heights, and pedal foot positions. The subjects were filmed with a cine-film camera and pedal reaction forces were recorded from a force transducer mounted on the left pedal. Net knee moments were calculated using a dynamic model, and the tibiofemoral shear and compressive force magnitudes were calculated using a biomechanical model of the knee. During cycling at 120 W, 60 rpm, midsaddle height, and anterior pedal foot position, the mean peak tibiofemoral compressive force was 812 N [1.2 times body weight (BW)]. The maximum anteriorly directed tibiofemoral shear force was found to be low (37 N). The compressive and shear forces were significantly increased by an increased ergometer workload. The pedaling rate had no influence on the tibiofemoral force magnitudes. The stress on the ACL was low and could be further decreased by use of the anterior foot position instead of the posterior.     

Influence of cycling cadence on subsequent running performance in triathletes

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of different cycling cadences on metabolic and kinematic parameters during subsequent running. METHODS: Eight triathletes performed two incremental tests (running and cycling) to determine maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and ventilatory threshold (VT) values, a cycling test to assess the energetically optimal cadence (EOC), three cycle-run succession sessions (C-R, 30-min cycle + 15-min run), and one 45-min isolated run (IR). EOC, C-R, and IR sessions were realized at an intensity corresponding to VT + 5%. During the cycling bouts of C-R sessions, subjects had to maintain one of the three pedaling cadences corresponding to the EOC (72.5 +/- 4.6 rpm), the freely chosen cadence (FCC; 81.2 +/- 7.2 rpm), and the theoretical mechanical optimal cadence (MOC, 90 rpm; Neptune and Hull, 1999). RESULTS: Oxygen uptake (VO2) increased during the 30-min cycling only at MOC (+12.0%) and FCC (+10.4%). During the running periods of C-R sessions, VO2, minute ventilation, and stride-rate values were significantly higher than during the IR session (respectively, +11.7%, +15.7%, and +7.2%). Furthermore, a significant effect of cycling cadence was found on VO2 variability during the 15-min subsequent run only for MOC (+4.1%) and FCC (+3.6%). CONCLUSION: The highest cycling cadences (MOC, FCC) contribute to an increase in energy cost during cycling and the appearance of a VO2 slow component during subsequent running, whereas cycling at EOC leads to a stability in energy cost of locomotion with exercise duration. Several hypotheses are proposed to explain these results such as changes in fiber recruitment or hemodynamic modifications during prolonged exercise.     

Energetically optimal cadence vs. freely-chosen cadence during cycling: effect of exercise duration

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between cadence and oxygen consumption with exercise duration. Ten triathletes who trained regularly were examined. The first test was always a maximal test to determine maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). The other sessions were composed of six submaximal tests representing 80% of the maximal power reached with VO2max (Pmax). During these tests submaximal rides with a duration of 30 min were performed. Each test represented, in a randomised order, one of the following pedal rates: 50, 65, 80, 95, 110 rpm and a freely-chosen rate. VO2, respiratory parameters, and heart rate were monitored continuously. Two periods, between the 3rd and the 6th minute and between the 25th and the 28th minute, were analysed. Results showed that when VO2 and heart rate were plotted against cadence, each curve could be best described by a parabolic function, whatever the period. Furthermore, a significant effect of period was found on energetically optimal cadence (70 +/- 4.5 vs. 86 +/- 6.2 rpm, P < 0.05). Only during the second period was no significant difference found between freely-chosen cadence (83 +/- 6.9 rpm) and energetically optimal cadence (P > 0.05). In conclusion, our results suggest that during prolonged exercise triathletes choose a cadence that is close to the energetically optimal cadence. A change of muscle fibre recruitment pattern with exercise duration and cadence would explain the shift in energetically optimal rate towards a higher pedal rate observed at the end of exercise.     

Efficiency of pedal forces during ergometer cycling

The aim of this study was to record the forces applied to the pedal during ergometer cycling and to calculate the effectiveness of these force vectors. Six healthy subjects rode a weight-braked bicycle ergometer at different work loads, pedaling rates, saddle heights, and pedal foot positions. The left lower limb and crank motions were recorded by a cinefilm camera and pedal reaction forces by a Kistler force measuring transducer mounted on the left pedal. The force effectiveness was computed as a ratio between the force tangential to instantaneous direction of pedal movement and the resultant force. The mean force efficiency ratio significantly increased by an increase of the ergometer work load or use of the anterior foot position instead of the posterior. It was not significantly changed due to alterations of the pedaling rate or saddle height.     

Effect of different aerodynamic time trial cycling positions on muscle activation and crank torque

To reduce air resistance, time trial cyclists and triathletes lower their torso angle. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of lowering time trial torso angle positions on muscle activation patterns and crank torque coordination. It was hypothesized that small torso angles yield a forward shift of the muscle activation timing and crank torque. Twenty‐one trained cyclists performed three exercise bouts at 70% maximal aerobic power in a time trial position at three different torso angles (0°, 8°, and 16°) at a fixed cadence of 85 rpm. Measurements included surface electromyography, crank torques and gas exchange. A significant increase in crank torque range and forward shift in peak torque timing was found at smaller torso angles. This relates closely with the later onset and duration of the muscle activation found in the gluteus maximus muscle. Torso angle effects were only observed in proximal monoarticular muscles. Moreover, all measured physiological variables (oxygen consumption, breathing frequency, minute ventilation) were significantly increased with lowering torso angle and hence decreased the gross efficiency. The findings provide support for the notion that at a cycling intensity of 70% maximal aerobic power, the aerodynamic gains outweigh the physiological/biomechanical disadvantages in trained cyclists.     

Effects of the real-time feedback and knee taping on lower-extremity function during ergometer pedaling in subjects with tibiofemoral varus alignment

BackgroundThe effect of the Posterior X Taping (PXT) used for subjects with Tibiofemoral Varus Malalignment (TFRV) aimed to control excessive tibiofemoral rotations is still unclear. Further, it is critical to use evidence-based therapeutic exercises to prevent non-contact injuries, especially in repetitive movements.ObjectiveTo investigate whether the PXT and real-time feedback (RTF) interventions would improve lower extremity functions during the pedaling task in subjects with TFRV.MethodsTwenty-four male recreational athletes with TFRV participated in this study; Kinematic and muscle activity were synchronously recorded on ten consecutive pedal cycles during the last 30 s of 2-min pedaling.ResultsThe present study indicated that the subjects at the post-intervention of the RTF group exhibited significant decreased hip adduction and internal rotation, significant decreased tibiofemoral external rotation between 144° and 216° of crank angle, significant increased vastus medialis activity between 144° and 288° of crank angle, and significant increased gluteus medius activity between 180° and 144° of crank angle; In contrast, the subjects at the post-intervention of the PXT group exhibited significant decreased tibiofemoral external rotation and increased ankle external rotation at all the crank angles. No between-group differences were observed in pre-and post-intervention.SignificanceThese results suggest that the PXT and RTF interventions are recommended to immediately improve the functional defects of the subjects with TFRV during the pedaling task.     

Performance at high pedaling cadences in well-trained cyclists

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to determine the effect of high pedaling cadences on maximal cycling power output (W(max)). METHODS: Nine well-trained cyclists performed a continuous, incremental cycle-ergometer test to exhaustion (25 W increases every 3 min) either at 80, 100, or 120 rpm on three different occasions. RESULTS: W(max) was approximately 9% lower during 120 rpm in comparison with 80 and 100 rpm (335 +/- 9, 363 +/- 7, and 370 +/- 12 W, respectively; P < 0.05). During 120 rpm, ventilation rate (V(E)) increased above the increases in expired CO(2), which reduced the power output (PO) at the ventilatory anaerobic threshold (VT(2)) by 11% (P < 0.05). Gross efficiency (GE) did not differ among trials. At 120 rpm, capillary blood lactate concentration ([Lac]) increased above the 80-rpm trial (5.3 +/- 1.2 vs 3.0 +/- 0.7 mM at 300 W; P < 0.05), although pH was not reduced. At 120 rpm, expired CO(2) increased and reduced blood bicarbonate concentration ([HCO(3)(-)]) was reduced, maintaining blood pH similar to the other trials. CONCLUSION: A high pedaling cadence (i.e., 120 rpm) reduces performance (i.e., W(max)) and anaerobic threshold during an incremental test in well-trained cyclists. The data suggest that ventilatory anaerobic threshold (VT(2)) is a sensitive predictor of optimal pedaling cadence for performance, whereas blood pH or efficiency is not.     

30秒全力蹬踏自行车运动中下肢肌肉协同活动特征研究

目的:观察30秒全力蹬踏自行车运动中下肢肌肉表面肌电信号随运动时间变化的特征,揭示该运动过程中下肢主要用力肌肉的协同活动规律。方法:10名场地自行车运动员(男7名,女3名,年龄21.5±4.7岁)在Wattbike功率自行车上进行30秒全力蹬踏自行车运动,记录输出功率、蹬踏频率和下肢股直肌、股肌(股内侧肌、股外侧肌)、腘绳肌(股二头肌、半腱肌)、胫骨前肌、腓肠肌外侧头、比目鱼肌的表面肌电信号,并采用高速摄像机记录运动影像。基于运动影像确定蹬踏周期起止点。基于表面肌电信号获取各测试肌肉的肌电中值频率、活动水平、激活时间和三组肌肉的协同收缩比率(CAI胫骨前肌/比目鱼肌、CAI股肌/腓肠肌、CAI股肌/腘绳肌)。结果:在运动结束即刻,蹬踏频率和输出功率分别相对于最大值下降了21.51%±5.40%和56.17%±9.91%。股直肌、股肌、腓肠肌肌电幅值、激活时间和肌电中值频率随运动持续时间的增加表现出单调递减(P<0.05)。肌肉协同收缩比率CAI胫骨前肌/比目鱼肌随运动持续时间的增加单调递增,而协同收缩比率CAI股肌/腓肠肌表现出单调递减趋势(P<0.05)。结论:在30秒全力蹬踏自行车运动中,股直肌、股肌、胫骨前肌、腓肠肌都出现较深的肌肉疲劳。在此过程中,下肢肌肉的协同活动呈现非同步性的变化,引起股肌-腓肠肌动力传递效率下降和踝关节拮抗肌共收缩比率增加。     

Measurement of maximal power output in isokinetic and non-isokinetic cycling. A comparison of two methods

The main goal of the study was to compare maximal power output and power output at different pedalling frequencies obtained during isokinetic all-out tests with maximal power output obtained during a single all-out sprint (against the same braking force for every subject). Sixty healthy male subjects participated in the study. The ergometer system used in this study has three operating modes: the isokinetic mode (maintaining pedal crank velocity constant at a present level), a revolution dependent mode and a revolution independent mode. In all three operating modes the effective forces are monitored by means of strain gauge. All subjects performed a single all-out sprint against a braking force of 20 Newton and an all-out isokinetic cycling test consisting of ten 10 s bouts of maximal cycling at speeds ranging from 50 rpm to 140 rpm. In both tests, irrespective of which test mode was used, the mean power for a complete crank revolution showed parabolic relationships to crank velocity. For the isokinetic test, the subjects showed a peak power (IsoWpeak) of 15.3+/-1.7 W/kg corresponding to an optimal velocity of 115+/-8.6 rpm. For the force-velocity test NonisoWpeak (the highest power obtained at any time during the test) was 14.4+/-1.9 W/kg and was achieved at a pedalling rate of 127+/-14 rpm. IsoWpeak was significantly higher than NonisoWpeak (p<0.001) but there were no significant differences between NonisoWpeak and IsoWmax (maximal mean power for each full crank revolution) for the revolutions from 90 rpm to 140 rpm. Though, NonisoWpeak and IsoWpeak are significantly different, there was a strong relationship between NonisoWpeak and IsoWpeak (r = 0.7158, p<0.001). There was also a strong relationship between NonisoWpeak and IsoWmax for the revolutions from 50 rpm to 120 rpm (p<0.001) and at 130 rpm (p<0.01).     

Full suspension mountain bike improves off-road cycling performance

AIM: The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of suspension systems on the cycling performance of cyclists during off-road bicycling. METHODS: Eight elite male cyclists (67.8+/-5.8 ml/min/kg of (.-)VO(2max)) performed 30-minute riding tests on bicycles with 2 different suspension setups: front suspension (FS) and front and rear suspension (FRS). Heart rate, blood lactate concentration, pedaling power, cadence, cycling velocity, and completed distance during the trial were measured creatin kinase (CK), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) were measured before and after the trials. RESULTS: The average cadence during the trial was significantly higher (p<0.05) with the FRS (73.6+/-6.1 rpm) than the FS (70.2+/-6.2 rpm). Subjects rode significantly faster (p<0.05) on FRS (24.1+/-2.6 km/h) than FS bikes (22.9+/-2.4 km/h), although no significant difference was observed in pedaling power (240.7+/-26.6 W vs 242.2+/-28.8 W, FS vs FRS, respectively). Serum creatin kinase increased significantly (p<0.05) at 24 h after the trial when cyclists exercised with the FS bike. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that the FRS improved cycling performance over rough terrain. FRS might therefore be more suitable for cross-country mountain bike races.