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Published on: July 5, 2017
Performance indicators and functional adaptive windows in competitive cyclists: effect of one-year strength and
Leonardo Cesanelli1, Achraf Ammar2,3, Jorge Arede4
1Department of Psychological, Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, University of Palermo, Palermo I-90128, Italy.
A year of strength and conditioning training significantly improved cycling performance indicators like functional threshold power and maximal strength. The study also identified potential endurance-functional-adaptive windows linked to strength and body composition changes in cyclists.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Cycling Performance Analysis
Background:
- The precise effects of long-term strength and conditioning on cycling performance metrics and their interrelationships remain incompletely understood.
- Investigating potential endurance-functional-adaptive windows (EFAWs) associated with strength and body composition adaptations is crucial for optimizing training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a one-year combined strength and conditioning program on key cycling performance indicators.
- To examine the relationships among these performance indicators following the training intervention.
- To explore the existence of EFAWs related to changes in muscular strength and body composition.
Main Methods:
- Thirty cyclists underwent a one-year strength and conditioning program.
- Measurements included functional threshold power (FTP), lactate threshold power (LTP), maximal strength (1RM), and body composition (BMI, BCM, PA) pre- and post-intervention.
- Statistical analyses included correlations, difference testing, and predictive modeling.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in FTP, LTP, 1RM, and body cell mass (BCM) post-training (p < 0.0001 for FTP, LTP, 1RM; p = 0.038 for BCM).
- FTP and LTP (in Watts) correlated positively with 1RM, body mass, BCM, and phase angle (PA).
- FTP and LTP (in W·kg⁻¹) showed strong negative correlations with body mass and BMI (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- One year of strength and conditioning training positively impacts cycling performance indicators and their interrelations.
- The findings support the existence of distinct EFAWs, influenced by individual cyclist characteristics and training goals.
- Tailored training strategies considering cyclist profiles are recommended to leverage EFAWs for enhanced cycling performance.
