Chronic Adaptations to Eccentric Cycling Training: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Eccentric cycling (ECC_CYC) and concentric cycling (CON_CYC) are distinct training modalities.
• Understanding their comparative effects on performance, physiology, and morphology is crucial for optimizing exercise interventions.

Approach:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and ScienceDirect.
• Bayesian multilevel meta-analysis models were employed to synthesize data from 14 comparative studies.
• Meta-regression was utilized to explore the influence of subject and study characteristics.

Key Points:

• ECC_CYC demonstrated superior gains in knee extensor strength, vastus lateralis muscle hypertrophy, and six-minute walking distance compared to CON_CYC.
• Both modalities were equally effective in reducing body fat percentage.
• CON_CYC proved more effective for increasing V˙O2max and peak power output in general populations.

Conclusions:

• ECC_CYC training offers significant advantages for improving muscle strength, hypertrophy, functional capacity, and neuromuscular variables.
• ECC_CYC is a viable and potentially superior option for exercise interventions, particularly for enhancing muscle-specific adaptations.
• ECC_CYC may be particularly beneficial for improving V˙O2max in individuals with cardiopulmonary diseases, highlighting its therapeutic potential.