Case Report: Load, Intensity, and Performance Characteristics in Multiple Grand Tours.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Cycling Performance Analysis

Background:

• Understanding the physiological demands on elite cyclists during multi-stage races is crucial for performance optimization.
• General classification (GC) contenders face unique challenges in Grand Tours (GTs) requiring sustained high intensity and power output.

Observation:

• Power output (PO) data from a GC contender across four GTs (Vuelta a España 2015, Giro d'Italia 2017, 2018, Tour de France 2018) were analyzed.
• Load and intensity metrics, including Training Stress Score (TSS) and kJ expenditure across five PO zones, were quantified.
• Climbing performance was assessed via maximal mean PO and relative PO on key mountain stages.

Findings:

• No significant differences in overall load and intensity were observed between the four GTs.
• A notable exception was less time spent in PO zone 5 during the 2018 Giro d'Italia.
• Relative PO on key climbs (5.9 ± 0.6 W·kg) was negatively impacted by climb duration and preceding elevation gain, but positively by mountain gradient.

Implications:

• The physiological load experienced by GC contenders is comparable across different GTs.
• Climbing performance is influenced by accumulated fatigue from prior stage elevation and the specific characteristics of the climb itself (duration, gradient).
• These insights can inform training periodization and race strategies for elite cyclists aiming for GC success.