The influence of 3D kinematic and electromyographical parameters on cycling economy

Abstract

Purpose: Economy is considered to be a key factor for the determination of performance in endurance events such as cycling. There have been no investigations which have related cycling economy to simultaneous measurements of 3D kinematics and muscular activation. This study examined selected biomechanical and neuromuscular parameters which have the strongest association with cycling economy.
Methods: Twenty-five trained cyclists (31.27±3.19 years) completed steady state cycling time trials at a workload of 180 W. Simultaneous measurements of 3D kinematics and electromyographical parameters were obtained. Continuous measurements of expired gases were used to provide a measure of cycling economy.
Results: A multiple regression analysis showed that key parameters of peak knee extension velocity and mean activity of the rectus femoris muscles were significant predictors of VO2 during steady state cycling (P<0.01).
Conclusion: This study has documented the key biomechanical parameters pertinent to cycling economy. As economy has been shown to influence aerobic performance, future work should focus on optimising these parameters to improve cycling economy.