The Role of Pedaling Intensity During Torque Training in Cyclists: A Three-Arm Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Torque training is increasingly popular among cyclists.
• Evidence regarding its effectiveness, particularly at different intensities, remains inconclusive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of high-load versus low-load torque training on cycling performance and muscle morphology.
• To compare the efficacy of different torque training protocols in well-trained male cyclists.

Main Methods:

• 46 well-trained male cyclists were divided into a control group, a high-load torque training group, and a low-load torque training group for 10 weeks.
• Training interventions included two weekly sessions of specific torque protocols.
• Performance indicators (e.g., maximum aerobic power, Wingate test) and quadriceps morphology were assessed.

Main Results:

• High-load torque training significantly improved Wingate peak and mean power, maximum aerobic power, ventilatory thresholds, and quadriceps cross-sectional area.
• Low-load torque training demonstrated limited significant improvements compared to the control group.
• No significant differences were found between high-load and low-load groups, despite moderate effect sizes for some parameters.

Conclusions:

• High-load torque training appears to be an effective method for enhancing cycling performance and muscle adaptations in well-trained cyclists.
• Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm the superiority of high-load over other torque training protocols.