Eccentric cycling does not improve cycling performance in amateur cyclists

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Eccentric cycling training is known to cause muscle hypertrophy and increase joint power in non-athletes.
• It is considered a movement-specific strength training for cyclists.
• Its effects on the cycling performance of trained cyclists remain unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of eccentric cycling training on cycling performance in trained amateur cyclists.
• To compare eccentric cycling training with concentric cycling training.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-three male amateur cyclists were randomized into eccentric or concentric cycling training groups.
• Training involved low cadence, controlled intensity eccentric/concentric intervals followed by aerobic intervals, twice weekly for 10 weeks.
• Assessments included maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), maximal aerobic power output (Wmax), lactate threshold, strength, muscle thickness, and cycling performance tests.

Main Results:

• Eccentric cycling led to muscle hypertrophy and increased eccentric strength compared to concentric training.
• These physiological adaptations did not translate into improved cycling performance or maximal oxygen uptake.
• Eccentric training showed potentially limiting or detrimental effects on maximal aerobic power output and 20-minute time trial performance.

Conclusions:

• Eccentric cycling training did not enhance cycling performance in amateur cyclists.
• Further research is needed to determine if these findings indicate a lack of efficacy, negative effects, or a delayed response to eccentric cycling training.