Quantification of maximal power output in well-trained cyclists
Author(s)
Wackwitz, Thomas A
Minahan, Clare L
King, Trish
Du Plessis, Chantelle
Andrews, Mark H
Bellinger, Phillip M
Year published
2020
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
This study aimed to compare mechanical variables derived from torque-cadence and power-cadence profiles established from different cycle ergometer modes (isoinertial and isokinetic) and modelling procedures (second- and third-order polynomials), whilst employing a novel method to validate the theoretical maximal power output (Pmax). Nineteen well-trained cyclists (n = 12 males) completed two experimental sessions comprising six, 6-s maximal isoinertial or isokinetic cycling sprints. Maximal pedal strokes were extracted to construct power-cadence relationships using second- and third-order polynomials. A 6-s sprint at the ...
View more >This study aimed to compare mechanical variables derived from torque-cadence and power-cadence profiles established from different cycle ergometer modes (isoinertial and isokinetic) and modelling procedures (second- and third-order polynomials), whilst employing a novel method to validate the theoretical maximal power output (Pmax). Nineteen well-trained cyclists (n = 12 males) completed two experimental sessions comprising six, 6-s maximal isoinertial or isokinetic cycling sprints. Maximal pedal strokes were extracted to construct power-cadence relationships using second- and third-order polynomials. A 6-s sprint at the optimal cadence (Fopt) or optimal resistance (Topt) was performed to assess construct validity of Pmax. No differences were found in the mechanical parameters when derived from isokinetic (Pmax = 1311 ± 415, Fopt = 118 ± 12) or isoinertial modes (Pmax = 1320 ± 421, Fopt = 116 ± 19). However, R2 improved (P < 0.02) when derived from isoinertial sprints. Third-order polynomial modelling improved goodness of fit values (Standard Error, adjusted R2), but derived similar mechanical parameters. Finally, peak power output during the optimised sprint did not significantly differ from the theoretical Pmax in both cycling modes, thus providing construct validity. The most accurate P-C profile can be derived from isoinertial cycling sprints, modelled using third-order polynomial equations.
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View more >This study aimed to compare mechanical variables derived from torque-cadence and power-cadence profiles established from different cycle ergometer modes (isoinertial and isokinetic) and modelling procedures (second- and third-order polynomials), whilst employing a novel method to validate the theoretical maximal power output (Pmax). Nineteen well-trained cyclists (n = 12 males) completed two experimental sessions comprising six, 6-s maximal isoinertial or isokinetic cycling sprints. Maximal pedal strokes were extracted to construct power-cadence relationships using second- and third-order polynomials. A 6-s sprint at the optimal cadence (Fopt) or optimal resistance (Topt) was performed to assess construct validity of Pmax. No differences were found in the mechanical parameters when derived from isokinetic (Pmax = 1311 ± 415, Fopt = 118 ± 12) or isoinertial modes (Pmax = 1320 ± 421, Fopt = 116 ± 19). However, R2 improved (P < 0.02) when derived from isoinertial sprints. Third-order polynomial modelling improved goodness of fit values (Standard Error, adjusted R2), but derived similar mechanical parameters. Finally, peak power output during the optimised sprint did not significantly differ from the theoretical Pmax in both cycling modes, thus providing construct validity. The most accurate P-C profile can be derived from isoinertial cycling sprints, modelled using third-order polynomial equations.
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Journal Title
Journal of Sports Sciences
Note
This publication has been entered in Griffith Research Online as an advanced online version.
Subject
Sports science and exercise
Curriculum and pedagogy
Clinical sciences
Applied and developmental psychology
Science & Technology
Life Sciences & Biomedicine
Sport Sciences
Isokinetic
isoinertial