Using Field Based Data to Model Sprint Track Cycling Performance

Abstract

Cycling performance models are used to study rider and sport characteristics to better understand performance determinants and optimise competition outcomes. Performance requirements cover the demands of competition a cyclist may encounter, whilst rider attributes are physical, technical and psychological characteristics contributing to performance. Several current models of endurance-cycling enhance understanding of performance in road cycling and track endurance, relying on a supply and demand perspective. However, they have yet to be developed for sprint-cycling, with current athlete preparation, instead relying on measures of peak-power, speed and strength to assess performance and guide training. Peak-power models do not adequately explain the demands of actual competition in events over 15-60 s, let alone, in World-Championship sprint cycling events comprising several rounds to medal finals. Whilst there are no descriptive studies of track-sprint cycling events, we present data from physiological interventions using track cycling and repeated sprint exercise research in multiple sports, to elucidate the demands of performance requiring several maximal sprints over a competition. This review will show physiological and power meter data, illustrating the role of all energy pathways in sprint performance. This understanding highlights the need to focus on the capacity required for a given race and over an event, and therefore the recovery needed for each subsequent race, within and between races, and how optimal pacing can be used to enhance performance. We propose a shift in sprint-cyclist preparation away from training just for peak power, to a more comprehensive model of the actual event demands.

Reply to: Comment on: “Using Field Based Data to Model Sprint Track Cycling Performance”

“…We thank Dr. Douglas [ 1 ] for his interest in our literature review outlining our current understanding of sprint cycling [ 2 ]. In our review, we use existing data to propose a new, more comprehensive model for sprint cycling performance, to which we recently added more evidence to support this hypothesized model [ 3 ]. In his letter [ 1 ], Dr. Douglas lays out specific criticisms of our “data” and recommendations by creating a strawman argument.…”

“…In our review, we use existing data to propose a new, more comprehensive model for sprint cycling performance, to which we recently added more evidence to support this hypothesized model [ 3 ]. In his letter [ 1 ], Dr. Douglas lays out specific criticisms of our “data” and recommendations by creating a strawman argument. However, much of what he argues against was never actually written in our literature review.…”

“…For example, our work [ 2 ] never states aerobic training should be prioritized, arguing instead that aerobic training is likely undervalued and a mixture of training may be required. More specifically, our literature review presents a broad swathe of the available data, although not every paper available, as any good review does, and then presents an interpretation and recommendations based on that literature.…”

“…We also contend sprint cycling should consider the potential contributions of aerobic training to improve performance, and in fact PPO. Dr. Douglas’ fundamental claim is essentially based on the idea any aerobic training limits PPO and thus performance [ 1 ]. We feel the data disagree and, equally, state several times more research is needed [ 2 ].…”

“…Dr. Douglas’ fundamental claim is essentially based on the idea any aerobic training limits PPO and thus performance [ 1 ]. We feel the data disagree and, equally, state several times more research is needed [ 2 ].…”