Biodynamics. Effect of pacing strategy on energy expenditure during a 1500-m cycling time trial

PURPOSE: A critical assumption in modeling optimal pacing strategy is that the amount of anaerobic energy that can be produced during a time trial is a constant value, independent of pacing strategy. To test this assumption, the effect of manipulations of pacing strategy on anaerobic work produced during a 1500-m cycling time trial was studied. Additionally, the effect of pacing strategy on aerobic and total work was studied. METHODS: Nine well-trained cyclists performed three 1500-m cycle ergometer time trials with different strategies (conservative (SUB), even paced (EVEN), and aggressive (SUPRA)). Anaerobic work, aerobic work, and total work were calculated on the basis of V O2, RER, gross efficiency, and external power output. RESULTS: ANOVA showed that total anaerobic work did not differ per strategy (EVEN: 27,604 +/- 1103 J, SUB: 26,495 +/- 1958 J, and SUPRA: 26,949 +/- 2062 J). No differences in aerobic work (EVEN: 28,266 +/- 1623 J,SUB: 27,950 +/- 1418 J, SUPRA: 27,844 +/- 1965 J) were evident, either. Subjects were able to accomplish significantly (P < 0.05) more total work during EVEN (55,870 +/- 2245 J) than during SUB and SUPRA (54,444 +/- 2306 and 54,794 +/- 2402 J, respectively). CONCLUSION: No difference in anaerobic and aerobic work was found per pacing strategy. Though relevant for sports performance, the differences in total work were relatively small (approximately 2%), considering the broad range of imposed strategies. The assumption that anaerobic work is a constant value, independent of pacing strategy, seems valid in the range of different strategies that are currently simulated in the energy flow models.     

Effect of distance feedback on pacing strategy and perceived exertion during cycling

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether providing incorrect distance feedback would alter pacing strategies, perceived exertion, and heart rate during 20-km cycling time trials (TT). METHODS: Well-trained cyclists (N=15) performed a peak power output (PPO) test, familiarization trial, and four 20-km cycling TT during which they were provided with only distance feedback using 1-km distance splits. For the control trial, subjects received accurate feedback at each kilometer split. In the increase trial, they received inaccurate feedback at 0.775 km for the first kilometer split with the distance increasing by 25 m each subsequent split up to 1.25 km in the final kilometer split. For the decrease trial, inaccurate feedback was provided at 1.25 km for the first kilometer split with the distance decreasing by 25 m each subsequent split up to 0.775 km in the final split. For the random trial, distance splits were randomized. RESULTS: No significant differences were found in the finishing times between trials. Pacing strategies were unaltered as suggested by similar power output profiles during all trials. RPE scores were also similar for all trials. However, average heart rate varied significantly between trials (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that exercise performance, pacing strategy, and RPE during a 20-km cycling TT are not altered by incorrect distance feedback. The data supported the existence of a pacing strategy that is set before exercise and that is unaffected by external distance feedback.     

Characteristics of track cycling.

Track cycling events range from a 200 m flying sprint (lasting 10 to 11 seconds) to the 50 km points race (lasting approximately 1 hour). Unlike road cycling competitions where most racing is undertaken at submaximal power outputs, the shorter track events require the cyclist to tax maximally both the aerobic and anaerobic (oxygen independent) metabolic pathways. Elite track cyclists possess key physical and physiological attributes which are matched to the specific requirements of their events: these cyclists must have the appropriate genetic predisposition which is then maximised through effective training interventions. With advances in technology it is now possible to accurately measure both power supply and demand variables under competitive conditions. This information provides better resolution of factors that are important for training programme design and skill development.     

Optimisation of starting conditions in track cycling

Purpose

Several factors may influence cycling performance and effort intensity during cycling competitions. The present study aimed to investigate the conditions that may influence the initial acceleration during the first 5 m of a cycling competition, particularly riding position, starting angle of the crank and hand position on handlebars. To this aim, eight male cyclists amateur were tested in laboratory and on track.

Methods

Surface electromyography was also used to verify the influence of upper body on muscle activity. Moreover, to verify the results, 59 professional cyclists were observed on the track using the same set-up.

Results

Standing position increased by 10 % the initial speed and acceleration compared to seated position. A starting crank angle of 71° and the position of the hands on the upper bar of the handlebar also improved the acceleration. The effects of these parameters were additive and, therefore, the acceleration with standing position and initial crank angle of 71° was about 35 % greater than that with seated position with an initial crank angle of 47°.

Conclusions

These effects were especially important when analysing the results of competitive athletes, which also showed better initial acceleration under spontaneously adopted optimal initial conditions.     

Development of peak performance in track cycling.

BACKGROUND: Retrospective analysis of peak performances can be a usefull tool for the estimation of future trends in high performance sports. The purpose of this study was to investigate the evolution of performance in track cycling from 1979 to 1999 and to asses age- and gender-related differences. METHODS: We studied the results of the world track cycling championships for this period in 200 m, 1000 m, individual and team pursuit races for elite and junior athletes. Overall trends, performance differences between rank 1 and 5, gender- and age-related differences were calculated. RESULTS: They show a significant (p<0.01) improvement in 1000 m, individual and team pursuit times for men and individual pursuit times for women. No significant evolution was seen in 200 m performance. In junior riders, only male athletes showed a continuous, significant improvement of average race speed in individual and team pursuit over the study period. Gender difference was 11+/-1.8% in all disciplines at all ages. Difference between elite and junior riders ranged between 5+/-2.1% for male and 6.1+/-2.2% for female athletes. The gap between rank 1 and 5 remained constant (2-3%) over the study period. CONCLUSIONS: A continuous improvement of performance over the last 20 years is visible in track cycling endurance disciplines. New technical developments show no statistical significant impact. The performance gap between male and female athletes is constant, independent of discipline or race distance and comparable to observations in other sports. Age-related differences in performance is most visible in disciplines requiring short, high intensity power output. Based on these data, estimation of possible winning times and adaptation of training programs for future track cycling competitions might be facilitated.     

Energetics of indoor track cycling in trained competitors

Steady-state track VO2 was estimated by means of the retroextrapolation method in seventeen competitive male cyclists at speeds ranging from 28 to 43 km.h-1. Peak VO2 was also determined using an ergocycle multistage test (80 rev.min-1). Results showed large VO2 variations at similar speeds on the track (SEE greater than 10% Y; n = 17). Third degree regressions were the most accurate to describe the evolution of VO2 with speed, while the units ml.kg-0.667.min-1 showed better correlations and lower dispersions than 1.min-1, ml.kg-1.min-1, and 1.min-1.m-2. When categorized according to the Québec Cycling Federation ranking, (elites: n = 6; nonelites: n = 11), the elites tended to demonstrate to a lower mean VO2 for the range of velocities studied. The difference was, however, not statistically significant (P greater than 0.05). Interindividual variations were reduced by expressing VO2 and speed as relative percentages of maximal values in ten subjects: % MAP = 6.475 e exp [0.0274% MAS] where % MAP = track VO2/laboratory peak VO2, and % MAS = speed/speed associated with peak VO2 on the track. No significant difference was observed between track and ergocycle peak VO2 (P greater than 0.05), indicating the validity of the 80 rev.min-1 protocol for laboratory evaluation of racing cyclists. The concept of cycling economy as a contributing factor to performance and applications of the % MAP-% MAS relationship are discussed.     

The effect of variable gradients on pacing in cycling time-trials

It has been reported that performance in cycling time-trials is enhanced when power is varied in response to gradient although such a mechanical pacing strategy has never been confirmed experimentally in the field. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess the efficacy of mechanical pacing by comparing a constant power strategy of 255 W with a variable power strategy that averaged to 255 W over an undulating time-trial course. 20 experienced cyclists completed 4 trials over a 4 km course with 2 trials at an average constant power of 253 W and 2 trials where power was varied in response to gradient and averaged 260 W. Time normalised to 255 W was 411±31.1 s for the constant power output trials and 399±29.5 s for the variable power output trials. The variable power output strategy therefore reduced completion time by 12±8 s (2.9%) which was significant ( P<0.001). Participants experienced difficulty in applying a constant power strategy over an undulating course which acted to reduce their time gain. It is concluded that a variable power strategy can improve cycling performance in a field time-trial where the gradient is not constant.     

Impact of starting strategy on cycling performance

In order to determine an optimal starting technique, the first four-min of two 20 km time trials (TT) were manipulated. Thirteen competitive, male cyclists (22.7 +/- 0.8 yr, 180.6 +/- 2.2 cm; 77.1 +/- 2.8kg; 8.3+/-0.7% fat; 4.9+/-0.21 x min(-1), 71.7+/-1.4% of VO2max) performed three, 20 km TTs. The pace of the first TT was self-selected (SS). Min 1-4 of the subsequent, randomly assigned TTs were performed 15% below and 15% above the average power output (PO) of min 1-4 of the SS TT, subjects then completed the TT as quickly as possible. As a percent change from the SS TT, the 15% below TT was (p < 0.05) faster than 15% above TT. Lactic acid values at min 4 of the 15% below TT (4.87+/-0.73mM x l(-1)) were lower (p<0.05) than both SS TT (9.78+/-1.05mM x l(-1)) and 15% above TT (11.54+/-1.00mM x l(-1)). Following min 4 to the finish there were no differences in VE, HR, or RPE. However, VO2, VO2 with respect to lactic acid threshold, and PO were all elevated in the 15% below TT as compared to both SS TT and 15% above TT. The initially high LA resulting from the starting strategies of the SS TT and 15% above TT may have reduced the work capacity of active muscle.     

Determination of the optimal energy level in spectral CT imaging for displaying abdominal vessels in pediatric patients

Purpose

To determine the optimal energy level in contrast-enhanced spectral CT imaging for displaying abdominal vessels in pediatric patients.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study was institutional review board approved. 15 children (8 males and 7 females, age range, 6–15 years, mean age 10.1 ± 3.1 years) underwent contrast-enhanced spectral CT imaging for diagnosing solid tumors in abdomen and pelvic areas were included. A single contrast-enhanced scan was performed using a dual energy spectral CT mode with a new split contrast injection scheme (iodixanol at 1–1.5 ml/kg dose. 2/3 first, 1/3 at 7–15 s after the first injection). 101 sets of monochromatic images with photon energies of 40–140 keV with 1 keV interval were reconstructed. Contrast-noise-ratio (CNR) for hepatic portal or vein were generated and compared at every energy level to determine the optimal energy level to maximize CNR. 2 board-certified radiologists interpreted the selected image sets independently for image quality scores.

Results

CT values and CNR for the vessels increased as photon energy decreased from 140 to 40 keV: (CT value: 48.29–570.12 HU, CNR: 0.08–14.90) in the abdominal aorta, (58.48–369.73 HU, 0.64–5.87) in the inferior vena cava, and (58.48–369.73 HU, 0.06–6.96) in the portal vein. Monochromatic images at 40–50 keV (average 42.0 ± 4.67 keV) could display vessels above three levels clearly, and with excellent image quality scores of 3.17 ± 0.58 (of 4) (k = 0.50). The CNR values at the optimal energy level were significantly higher than those at 70 keV, an average energy corresponding to the conventional 120 kVp for abdominal CT imaging.

Conclusion

Spectral CT imaging provides a set of monochromatic images to optimize image quality and enhance vascular visibility, especially in the hepatic portal and vein systems. The best CNR for displaying abdominal vessels in children was obtained at 42 keV photon energy level.     

Torque and power-velocity relationships in cycling: relevance to track sprint performance in world-class cyclists

The aims of the present study were both to describe anthropometrics and cycling power-velocity characteristics in top-level track sprinters, and to test the hypothesis that these variables would represent interesting predictors of the 200 m track sprint cycling performance. Twelve elite cyclists volunteered to perform a torque-velocity test on a calibrated cycle ergometer, after the measurement of their lean leg volume (LLV) and frontal surface area (A(p)), in order to draw torque- and power-velocity relationships, and to evaluate the maximal power (P(max)), and both the optimal pedalling rate (f(opt)) and torque (T(opt)) at which P (max) is reached. The 200 m performances--i.e. velocity (V200) and pedalling rate (f 200)--were measured during international events (REC) and in the 2002 French Track Cycling Championships (NAT). P(max), f(opt), and T(opt) were respectively 1600 +/- 116 W, 129.8 +/- 4.7 rpm and 118.5 +/- 9.8 N . m. P(max) was strongly correlated with T(opt) (p < 0.001), which was correlated with LLV (p < 0.01). V200 was related to P(max) normalized by A(p) (p < or = 0.05) and also to f(opt) (p < 0.01) for REC and NAT. f 200 (155.2 +/- 3, REC; 149 +/- 4.3, NAT) were significantly higher than f(opt) (p < 0.001). These findings demonstrated that, in this population of world-class track cyclists, the optimization of the ratio between P(max) and A(p) represents a key factor of 200 m performance. Concerning the major role also played by f(opt), it is assumed that, considering high values of f 200, sprinters with a high value of optimal pedalling rate (i.e. lower f200-f(opt) difference) could be theoretically in better conditions to maximize their power output during the race and hence performance.     

Relation between preferred and optimal cadences during two hours of cycling in triathletes

Objectives

To determine whether the integrated electromyographic signal of two lower limb muscles indicates preferred cadence during a two hour cycling task.

Methods

Eight male triathletes performed right isometric maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) knee extension and plantar flexion before (P1) and after (P2) a two hour laboratory cycle at 65% of maximal aerobic power. Freely chosen cadence (FCC) was also determined, also at 65% of maximal aerobic power, from five randomised three minute sessions at 50, 65, 80, 95, and 110 rpm. The integrated electromyographic signal of the vastus lateralis and gastrocnemius lateralis muscles was recorded during MVC and the cycle task.

Results

The FCC decreased significantly (p<0.01) from P1 (87.4 rpm) to P2 (68.6 rpm), towards the energetically optimal cadence. The latter did not vary significantly during the cycle task. MVC of the vastus lateralis and gastrocnemius lateralis decreased significantly (p<0.01) between P1 and P2 (by 13.5% and 9.6% respectively). The results indicate that muscle activation at constant power was not minimised at specific cadences. Only the gastrocnemius lateralis muscle was affected by a two hour cycling task (especially at 95 and 110 rpm), whereas vastus lateralis remained stable.

Conclusion

The decrease in FCC observed at the end of the cycle task may be due to changes in the muscle fibre recruitment pattern with increasing exercise duration and cadence.     

Exercise responses to heart rate clamped cycling with graded blood flow restriction

ObjectivesTo quantify the acute effects of graded blood flow restriction on the interaction between changes in mechanical output, muscle oxygenation trends and perceptual responses to heart rate clamped cycling.DesignRepeated measures.MethodsTwenty-five adults (21 men) performed six, 6-min cycling bouts (24 min of recovery) at a clamped heart rate corresponding to their first ventilatory threshold at 0 % (unrestricted), 15 %, 30 %, 45 %, 60 % and 75 % of arterial occlusion pressure with the cuffs inflated bilaterally from the fourth to the sixth minute. Power output, arterial oxygen saturation (pulse oximetry) and vastus lateralis muscle oxygenation (near-infrared spectroscopy) were monitored during the final 3 min of pedalling, whilst perceptual responses (modified Borg CR10 scales) were obtained immediately after exercise.ResultsCompared to unrestricted cycling, average power output for minutes 4–6 decreased exponentially for cuff pressures ranging 45–75 % of arterial occlusion pressure (P < 0.001). Peripheral oxygen saturation averaged ∼ 96 % across all cuff pressures (P = 0.318). Deoxyhemoglobin changes were larger at 45–75 % versus 0 % of arterial occlusion pressure (P < 0.05), whereas higher total haemoglobin values occurred at 60–75 % of arterial occlusion pressure (P < 0.05). Sense of effort, ratings of perceived exertion, pain from cuff pressure, and limb discomfort were exaggerated at 60–75 % versus 0 % of arterial occlusion pressure (P < 0.001).ConclusionsBlood flow restriction of at least 45 % of arterial occlusion pressure is required to reduce mechanical output during heart rate clamped cycling at the first ventilatory threshold. Whilst power decreases non-linearly above this pressure threshold, higher occlusion levels ranging 60–75 % of arterial occlusion pressure also accentuate muscle deoxygenation and exercise-related sensations.     

Influence of pacing strategy on oxygen uptake during treadmill middle-distance running

The oxygen uptake (VO2) attained during a constant speed 800-m pace trial on a treadmill is less than the maximal VO2 (VO2max) in male middle-distance runners with a high VO2max (i.e., > 65 ml x kg (-1) x min (-1)). We therefore investigated whether the VO2 attained was influenced by the pacing strategy adopted. Eight male middle-distance runners (age 25.8 +/- 3.3 years; height 1.78 +/- 0.10 m; mass 67.8 +/- 4.7 kg) with a personal best 800-m time of 112.0 +/- 3.3 s volunteered to participate. Subjects undertook a speed ramped progressive test to determine VO2max and three 800-m pace runs to exhaustion all in a randomised order. The three 800-m pace runs included constant speed, acceleration, and race simulation runs. Oxygen uptake was determined throughout each test using 15-s Douglas bag collections. Following the application of a 30-s rolling average, the highest VO2 during the progressive test (i.e., VO2max) and the highest VO2 during the 800-m pace runs (i.e., VO2peak) were compared. For the eight runners, VO2max was 67.2 +/- 4.3 ml x kg (-1) x min (-1) x VO2peak was 60.1 +/- 5.1 ml x kg (-1) x min (-1), 61.1 +/- 5.2 ml x kg (-1) x min (-1), and 62.2 +/- 4.9 ml x kg (-1) x min (-1), yielding values of 89.3 +/- 2.4 %, 90.8 +/- 2.8 %, and 92.5 +/- 3.1 % VO2max for the constant speed, acceleration and race simulation runs, respectively. Across runs, repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant effect (p = 0.048). Trend analysis identified a significant linear trend (p = 0.025) with the % VO2max attained being higher for the acceleration run than the constant speed run, and higher still for the race simulation run. These results demonstrate that in middle-distance runners a) pacing strategy influences the VO2 attained, with a race simulation run elevating the VO2 attained compared with other pacing strategies, and b) regardless of pacing strategy the VO2 attained in an 800-m pace run on a treadmill is less than VO2max.     

Influence of pacing strategy on O2 uptake and exercise tolerance

Seven male subjects completed cycle exercise bouts to the limit of tolerance on three occasions: (1) at a constant work rate (340+/-57 W; even-pace strategy; ES); (2) at a work rate that was initially 10% lower than that in the ES trial but which then increased with time such that it was 10% above that in the ES trial after 120 s of exercise (slow-start strategy; SS); and, (3) at a work rate that was initially 10% higher than that in the ES trial but which then decreased with time such that it was 10% below that in the ES trial after 120 s of exercise (fast-start strategy; FS). The expected time to exhaustion predicted from the pre-established power-time relationship was 120 s in all three conditions. However, the time to exhaustion was significantly greater (P<0.05) for the FS (174+/-56 s) compared with the ES (128+/-21 s) and SS (128+/-30 s) conditions. In the FS condition, (.)VO2 increased more rapidly toward its peak such that the total O2 consumed in the first 120 s of exercise was greater (ES: 5.15+/-0.78; SS: 5.07+/-0.83; FS: 5.36+/-0.84 L; P<0.05 for FS vs ES and SS). These results suggest that a fast-start pacing strategy might enhance exercise tolerance by increasing the oxidative contribution to energy turnover and hence "sparing" some of the finite anaerobic capacity across the transition to high-intensity exercise.     

Predicted, actual and optimal precompetition anxiety in adolescent track and field athletes

Anxiety was assessed in younger and older adolescent athletes in an attempt to test aspects of Hanin's zone of optimal function theory. Sixty-five participants in a track and field camp completed anxiety inventories at baseline and were instructed: 1) to recall how anxious they felt prior to their best performance and 2) to predict how anxious they would feel prior to an informal meet to be held 4 days later. Actual precompetition anxiety was assessed 1 h prior to the meet. Predicted precompetition anxiety was significantly higher than baseline and actual precompetition anxiety. Mean actual precompetition anxiety was not elevated above baseline. However, 34% (22/65) of the sample experienced high levels of precompetition anxiety, and the majority of these (17/22) reported performing optimally with high anxiety. Significant correlations between predicted and actual precompetition anxiety occurred for boys, but not for girls. The differences between predicted and actual precompetition values tended to be smaller in boys than in girls. Based on this sample, it is concluded that: 1) in accordance with the zone of optimal function theory, young athletes display considerable diversity in actual and optimal precompetition anxiety values; and 2) young athletes tend to overestimate the level of anxiety they will experience prior to an easy competition.