Pedal force effectiveness in Cycling: a review of constraints and training effects
Journal Title: Journal of Science and Cycling - Year 2013, Vol 2, Issue 1
Abstract
Pedal force effectiveness in cycling is usually measured by the ratio of force perpendicular to the crank (effective force) and total force applied to the pedal (resultant force). Most studies measuring pedal forces have been restricted to one leg but a few studies have reported bilateral asymmetry in pedal forces. Pedal force effectiveness is increased at higher power output and reduced at higher pedaling cadences. Changes in saddle position resulted in unclear effects in pedal force effectiveness, while lowering the upper body reduced pedal force effectiveness. Cycling experience and fatigue had unclear effects on pedal force effectiveness. Augmented feedback of pedal forces can improve pedal force effectiveness within a training session and after multiple sessions for cyclists and non-cyclists. No differences in pedal force effectiveness were evident between summarized and instantaneous feedback. Conversely, economy/efficiency seems to be reduced when cyclists are instructed to improve pedal force effectiveness during acute intervention studies involving one session. Decoupled crank systems effectively improved pedal force effectiveness with conflicting effects on economy/efficiency and performance.
Authors and Affiliations
Rodrigo R Bini| Sport Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.Laboratório de Pesquisa do Exercício, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil, Patria Hume| Sport Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand., James Croft| School of Physical Education, Otago University, Dunedin, New Zealand, Andrew Kilding| Sport Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP2810
- DOI -
- Views 747
- Downloads 45
An analysis of intrinsic factors, performance, comfort and economy in relation to static and dynamic whole body kinematics in recreational and elite cyclists
Cycling has increased in popularity as a sport over the past decade. A properly configured bicycle is essential for optimal performance, comfort and injury prevention. Knee flexion angle has been studied extensively yet...
Effect of environmental temperature on pacing during a simulated 16 km cycling time trial
Background: In cycling time trials (TT) the aim is to produce greatest average power possible for the duration of the effort; to do this an athlete must distribute their effort efficiently to ensure that they do not fati...
Analysis of Mean Maximal Power in cycling with a modified Critical Power model allowing for a non-constant Anaerobic Work Capacity
Introduction: Since its introduction by Monod and Sherrer1 the Critical Power model has been applied to the analysis of cycling performances. In this model the Critical Power CP is the highest power that can be sustained...
Relationship between physiological and biomechanical variables with aerobic power output in cycling
Performance in cycling may be determined by physiological and biomechanical parameters. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between biomechanical and physiological variables with aerobic power output in...
Physiological and performance characteristics of road, mountain bike and BMX cyclists
The purpose of this research was to quantify several physiological and power output characteristics of high-performance road, cross-country mountain bike (XCMB), downhill mountain bike (DHMB) and bicycle motocross (BMX)...