Characteristics of power output during supramaximal cycle ergometer exercise in first- and third-grade male Japanese high school cyclists

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to clarify if there are differences in optimal load (Lopt; force factor), optimal cadence (Copt; velocity factor), and maximal anaerobic power (MAnP) between first- and third-grade high school cyclists and if Lopt is related to muscle strength.Methods: Forty-three male high school cyclists (first grade: 15.6 ± 0.5 years, n = 20; third grade: 17.3 ± 0.5, n = 23) participated in this study. The MAnP test was conducted at three different loads using an electrically braked cycle ergometer, and MAnP, Lopt, and Copt were determined. The subjects’ isokinetic knee extensor and flexor muscle strengths were measured at 180°/sec in an isokinetic dynamometer.Results: The MAnP value of the third-grade cyclists was significantly higher than that of the first-grade cyclists (1116.2 ± 131.8 vs. 946.6 ± 106.5 W, P < 0.01). There was no difference in Copt between the two grades, whereas Lopt was significantly higher in third-grade cyclists than first-grade cyclists (9.4 ± 0.8 vs. 8.2 ± 0.7 kp, P < 0.01). Both muscle strengths were significantly higher in third-grade cyclists than first-grade cyclists. In all subjects, muscle strengths were significantly correlated with Lopt (knee extension and flexion; r = 0.670 and r = 0.466, respectively, P < 0.01).Conclusion: The higher MAnP resulting from greater Lopt in third-grade high school cyclists was related to greater lower limb muscle strength, compared with that of first-grade high school cyclists.