- Title
- The physiology of road cycling : New testing and training methodologies for competitive cyclists
- Creator
- Clark, Bradley
- Date
- 2014
- Type
- Text; Thesis; PhD
- Identifier
- http://researchonline.federation.edu.au/vital/access/HandleResolver/1959.17/81592
- Identifier
- vital:8244
- Abstract
- Objective: The objective of this project is to describe and test the efficacy of new testing and training techniques for competitive cyclists. Methods: Physiological variables and cycling performance were measured during a graded exercise test (GXT) and a novel, computer-simulated, variable gradient 20-km cycling time-trial. Initially, data collected from the time-trial and GXT were used to establish the reliability of the time-trial, determine the laboratory correlates of hilly cycling performance and examine the pacing pattern during hilly cycling performance. Then, results from a series of GXT’s and time-trials were used to establish the effects of a brief period of overload training on the physiology and performance of competitive cyclists. Results: Power output and performance time measured during a computer simulated 20-km variable gradient cycling test were reliable, however reliability diminished with increasing time between trials. Performance in variable gradient time-trial correlated strongly with absolute measures of physiological variables; however the strength of correlations increased when variables were measured relative to body mass. Power output was highest during the first four and last two kilometres of a variable gradient time-trial. Additionally, there were large differences in power output between consecutive one kilometre segments throughout the trial, particularly when the difference in gradient between segments was greater. Performance in the variable gradient time-trial improved substantially following a brief period of overload training. Performance improvement corresponded with adaptation in important physiological determinants of cycling performance, namely maximal oxygen uptake, lactate threshold and gross efficiency. Conclusions: Variable gradient, cycling time-trial tests can be used to detect meaningful changes in performance, evoke dynamic distribution of power output and are best suited to cyclists who produce high power outputs relative to body mass. The current project also determined that a brief period of overload training induces physiological adaptation and substantial improvement in cycling performance in competitive cyclists. Sport scientists, coaches and cyclists can use this information to determine the testing and training techniques used in preparation for competition.; Doctor of Philosophy
- Publisher
- Federation University Australia
- Rights
- Copyright Bradley Clark
- Rights
- Open Access
- Rights
- This metadata is freely available under a CCO license
- Subject
- Road cycling; Training techniques; Competitive cyclists; Physiological variables; Cycling performance
- Full Text
- Thesis Supervisor
- O'Brien, Brendan
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