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Foot orthoses do not affect crank power output during maximal exercise on a cycle-ergometer
Boon K Yeo1, David M Rouffet2, Daniel R Bonanno1
1Discipline of Podiatry, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Australia.
Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport
|May 26, 2015
Summary
Custom foot orthoses did not improve cycling performance or comfort in competitive cyclists. This study found no significant differences in maximal power, torque, or cadence with custom versus sham orthoses.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Cycling Performance
Background:
- Foot orthoses are used to address biomechanical issues.
- Their impact on cycling performance in competitive athletes is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of custom-made foot orthoses on torque- and power-cadence relationships during maximal cycling.
- To assess perceived comfort with custom foot orthoses in competitive cyclists.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, repeated measures, participant-blinded study.
- Twenty-four competitive cyclists performed maximal cycling tests with custom and sham foot orthoses.
- Key performance variables and comfort were measured.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found in maximal power, optimal cadence, optimal torque, maximal torque, or maximal cadence between custom and sham orthoses.
- Perceived comfort was also similar between the two conditions.
Conclusions:
- Custom foot orthoses do not significantly enhance torque and power generation during maximal cycling exercise.
- They also do not improve comfort compared to sham orthoses in competitive road cyclists.
