Determining optimal cadence for an individual road cyclist from field data

Abstract

The cadence that maximises power output developed at the crank by an individual cyclist is conventionally determined using a laboratory test. The purpose of this study was two-fold: (i) to show that such a cadence, which we call the optimal cadence, can be determined using power output, heart-rate, and cadence measured in the field and (ii) to describe methodology to do so. For an individual cyclist's sessions, power output is related to cadence and the elicited heart-rate using a non-linear regression model. Optimal cadences are found for two riders (83 and 70 revolutions per minute, respectively); these cadences are similar to the riders’ preferred cadences (82–92 rpm and 65–75 rpm). Power output reduces by approximately 6% for cadences 20 rpm above or below optimum. Our methodology can be used by a rider to determine an optimal cadence without laboratory testing intervention: the rider will need to collect power output, heart-rate, and cadence measurements from training and racing sessions over an extended period (>6 months); ride at a range of cadences within those sessions; and calculate his/her optimal cadence using the methodology described or a software tool that implements it.

Stability analysis and prediction of pacing in elite 1500 m freestyle male swimmers

“…However, was pointed out that long-distance elite athletes such as cyclists (as a cyclic and closed sport like swimming) seem to privilege the SF over the SL (Abbiss et al, 2009). It was highlighted that elite cyclists that maintained a higher cadence increased their power output based on a high mechanical efficiency and maximal aerobic capacity (Reed et al, 2016). Our data seems to also suggest this rational for long-distance swimmers.…”

The Effect of Modification Psychomotor Tasks in the Virtual Reality on Cadence and Behavioural Responses of Cycling

“…As cycling is an endurance sport that involves mechanical efficiency, work rate and pedalling technique are crucial in determining overall athletic performance. According to previous studies, three physiological parameters that are frequently explored are power output, heart rate, and cadence [14], [17], [18]. These physiological functions typically respond depending on individual development and performance, as well as external factors such as environment and competitiveness.…”

“…These physiological functions typically respond depending on individual development and performance, as well as external factors such as environment and competitiveness. These three were also evaluated and investigated in the context to identify optimal pedalling for performance [17]. In fact, optimal cadence influences peak performance to modulate by movement frequency during pedalling as this physiological parameter was previously investigated to understand the integration with cortical brain activity [19].…”