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Gross cycling efficiency is not altered with and without toe-clips
Laura M Ostler1, James A Betts, Christopher J Gore
1Sport and Exercise Science, University of Bath, Bath, UK.
Journal of Sports Sciences
|September 14, 2007
Summary
This study investigated if racing pedals reduce oxygen consumption during cycling. Results show that toe-clip pedals do not lower submaximal oxygen consumption (VO2) compared to flat pedals.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Claims suggest cycling pedal type affects oxygen consumption.
- Previous research has not tested the impact of toe-clip vs. flat pedals on VO2.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the assertion that toe-clip pedals reduce submaximal oxygen consumption (VO2) by 8-18% compared to flat pedals.
- To determine the effect of pedal type on cycling efficiency.
Main Methods:
- 11 male participants completed randomized trials on a Monark cycle ergometer.
- Oxygen consumption (VO2) and gross efficiency were measured using the Douglas bag method.
- Workloads ranged from 60 to 240 W at a cadence of 60 rpm.
Main Results:
- Mean VO2 was 2.1% higher with toe-clip pedals compared to flat pedals.
- There was a 99% probability that toe-clip pedals would not result in an 8% reduction in VO2.
- No significant reduction in VO2 was observed with toe-clip pedals.
Conclusions:
- The use of toe-clip pedals does not lead to reductions in submaximal oxygen consumption.
- The hypothesis that toe-clip pedals decrease VO2 is not supported by this study's findings.
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