Influence of Chronotype on Cycling Performance in Simulated 20-km Time Trials-A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Chronobiology
• Human Performance

Background:

• Chronotype (CT) describes individual diurnal preferences for morningness (M) or eveningness (E).
• Understanding CT's influence on athletic performance is crucial for optimizing training and competition strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of chronotype on 20-km cycling performance across different times of the day.
• To determine if specific chronotypes (M-type vs. E-type) exhibit performance variations throughout a 24-hour period.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-six competitive male cyclists and triathletes were categorized by chronotype using the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire.
• Participants completed four self-paced 20-km cycling time trials at 06:00, 12:00, 18:00, and 22:00 hours in a randomized order.
• Mental readiness was assessed before each time trial.

Main Results:

• Overall cycling performance was significantly better in the evening compared to the morning (2.1% improvement).
• Evening-type (E-type) athletes demonstrated significantly better performance in the evening versus the morning, being 40 seconds faster at 18:00 h compared to 06:00 h.
• E-type athletes reported lower mental readiness at 06:00 h compared to other times.

Conclusions:

• Evening-type athletes perform optimally later in the day, with performance peaking in the evening.
• Chronotype significantly influences cycling performance, highlighting the importance of timing for training and competition.
• Scheduling considerations based on chronotype may enhance athletic outcomes, particularly for morning competitions.