Cycling Intensity Effect on Running Plus Cycling Performance among Triathletes
Lavínia Vivan1, Vinicius Ribeiro Dos Anjos1, Paulo Engelke1
1Postgraduate Program in Translation Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|September 23, 2024
Summary
To optimize triathlon performance, male athletes should cycle at 90% functional threshold power (FTP) to improve running speed. Both male and female triathletes benefit from cycling at 90% FTP for faster overall cycling plus running times.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Triathlon Training
Background:
- Running performance is a critical component of triathlon success.
- The preceding cycling leg can significantly impact subsequent running performance.
- Understanding the optimal cycling intensity is key for maximizing overall triathlon time.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the combined cycling and running (C+R) time in triathletes at different cycling intensities.
- To determine the effect of prior cycling intensity on maximal 5km running performance.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for optimizing triathlon pacing strategies.
Main Methods:
- 38 triathletes (21 males, 17 females) completed three laboratory sessions.
- Participants cycled 20km at 80%, 85%, or 90% of their functional threshold power (FTP) in a randomized order.
- Following cycling, athletes ran 5km as fast as possible, with body composition and VO2max assessed.
Main Results:
- Males ran significantly faster after cycling at 80% FTP compared to 90% FTP.
- Combined C+R time was significantly faster at 90% FTP cycling intensity versus 80% FTP for both males and females.
- No significant differences in running time were found for females across the tested cycling intensities.
Conclusions:
- Cycling at a minimum of 90% FTP is recommended for both male and female triathletes to optimize overall performance.
- Higher cycling intensity (90% FTP) leads to faster overall C+R times, despite potential minor impacts on individual running splits for males.
- These findings suggest a pacing strategy that prioritizes a strong cycling effort to achieve the fastest combined race time.
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