The Effect of Variable Gradients on Pacing in Cycling Time-Trials

Abstract

tage could still be gained if the variance from a constant speed is minimised [3] . Swain [15] was one of the Þ rst investigators to draw attention to the mechanical performance advantage that could be obtained by varying power output (expressed as VO 2 ) in response to variances in wind and gradient. Over a theoretical 10 km course with 10 symmetrical climbs and descents of 5 -15 % gradient, Swain [15] calculated time savings of 4 -8 % were possible. Subsequently, Atkinson et al . [3] re-calculated the results of Swain [15] using a more complete model of cycling power output demands [12] . These researchers calculated that a variable power output strategy would reduce race time by 8 % . Gordon [7] modelled a 40 km course with 20 symmetrical climb / descents of 2.5 % and obtained a time saving of 1.6 % compared to an equivalent constant power output strategy. The lesser time saving of Gordon [7] reß ects the reduced gradient proÞ le and emphasises the importance of a large gradient variance if the advantage of a variable power output strategy is to be realised. Thus, whilst performance improvement has been calculated in previous studies by adopting a variable power output strategy on an undulating

Thorax and Pelvis Kinematics Change During Sustained Cycling

“…The 60 min cycle was divided into six 10 min work periods ( • ▶ Fig. 1 ), each designed to represent a single lap of a road racing course [ 5 ] . Each lap was divided into an 8 min steady state section (workload at 88 % of OBLA) followed immediately by a 90 s eff ort phase (workload at 140 % of OBLA), which was proceeded by a 30 s recovery section (workload at 60 % of OBLA).…”

Laboratory predictors of uphill cycling performance in trained cyclists

“…However, not only even (Thomas, Stone, Thompson, St Clair Gibson, & Ansley, 2012a), but also variable (Billat, Wesfreid, Kapfer, Koralsztein, & Meyer, 2006;Lander, Butterly, & Edwards, 2009) and parabolic (Ham & Knez, 2009;Thomas, Stone, St Clair Gibson, Thompson, & Ansley, 2013) pacing strategies have all been linked to optimal TT performance. Since pacing strategy in the field is also affected by fluctuations in gradient and wind, which consequently result in a more variable power distribution (Atkinson & Brunskill, 2000;Cangley, Passfield, Carter, & Bailey, 2011), it is important to consider this variable when investigating the nuances of fieldbased performance tests.…”

Adaptive feedback system for optimal pacing strategies in road cycling

“…Nevertheless, in road cycling, the courses are rarely completely flat, and therefore, different strategies seem beneficial. It was shown theoretically as well as experimentally that varying the rider's power output according to the slope or wind improves the race performance [3][4][5]. On uphill-or headwind sections the power output should be increased, while on downhill-or tailwind sections, the power output should be decreased.…”