Determination of Maximal Aerobic Power on the field in cycling
Journal Title: Journal of Science and Cycling - Year 2014, Vol 3, Issue 1
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to propose a method for determining the Maximal Aerobic Power (MAP), the time that MAP can be sustained (TMAP) and aerobic endurance capability in cyclists from the Record Power Profile. Methods: 28 cyclists trained and raced with mobile power meter devices (SRM) affixed to their bikes during two consecutive seasons. The Record Power Profile (RPP) of each cyclist was determined in order to draw the relationship between the record power output (PO) and log time for aerobic metabolism. MAP and TMAP were determined along with record PO between 3 and 10 min from the linear extrapolation of aerobic metabolism. The aerobic endurance index (AEI) of each cyclist was assessed with decrease of the fractional use of MAP according to the time. Results: The average values of MAP and TMAP are 456±42 W (6.87±0.5 W.kg-1) and 4.13±0.7 min (CV=17%), respectively. Professional cyclists have a shorter TMAP than elite cyclists (3.86 min vs. 4.46 min) (p<0.05) but a higher MAP: 476 W vs. 433 W (p<0.05) and 7.02 W.kg-1 vs. 6.70 W.kg-1 (p<0.1). AEI ranged between -8.34 and -11.33 (mean AEI=-9.53±0.7), and there is no significant difference in AEI between the two competition levels. Conclusion: Determing MAP, TMAP and AEI from the RPP appears to improve determination of the various intensity zones in cycling, providing a more accurate analysis of the cyclist’s potential and optimising the training process.
Authors and Affiliations
Julien Pinot| University of Franche Comte, EA4660, Health and Sport Department, C3S, France.FDJ.fr Pro Cycling Team, France, Frederic Grappe| University of Franche Comte, EA4660, Health and Sport Department, C3S, France.FDJ.fr Pro Cycling Team, France
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