Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026
Assessment of Physical Activity Intensity with Accelerometers and Oxygen Consumption
Published on: June 20, 2025
Sex Differences in Pacing Profile and Reliability in a 4-km Cycling Time Trial
Alisson Henrique Marinho1,2,3, Julio Cezar Schamne1,4, Julio Satoshi Hasegawa5
1Human Performance Research Group, Federal University of Technology-Paraná (UTFPR). Curitiba, PR, Brazil.
Background:
Sex differences in pacing profile and day-to-day variability have been underexplored. Therefore, this study investigated potential sex differences in pacing profile, risk-taking behavior, and pacing reliability during a 4-km cycling time trial.
Hypothesis:
Men and women present similar pacing and assume similar risk of premature trial interruption during a 4-km cycling time trial. In addition, it was hypothesized that men and women might present comparable performance and pacing reliability.
Study Design:
Cross-sectional study.
Level Of Evidence:
Level 4.
Methods:
A total of 32 cyclists (16 men and 16 women) performed 2 4-km cycling time trials on separate days. Power output and ratings of perceived exertion were recorded during the trials. To quantify the risk of premature time-trial interruption, the hazard score was calculated as the product of the rating of perceived exertion and the remaining distance.
Results:
There were no sex differences in power output distribution or hazard score during the 4-km cycling time trial (P > 0.05), with both men and women presenting a "U-shaped" pacing profile. In addition, men and women exhibited similar endurance performance reliability between trials (P > 0.05). However, the day-to-day coefficient of variation for power output distribution ranged from 3.5% to 7.2% in women and from 1.9% to 6.3% in men, indicating slightly greater day-to-day variability in the pacing profile for women.
Conclusion:
Men and women exhibit similar pacing profiles, risk-taking behavior, and endurance performance reliability during a 4-km cycling time trial. However, women seem to demonstrate greater day-to-day pacing profile variability than men.
Clinical Relevance:
The present findings provide insights that enable more accurate monitoring and prescription of training protocols in female cyclists.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Factors Influencing Heart Rate
Let us explore the significant factors affecting heart rate, including age, body temperature, posture, acute pain, chemical influences,...
01:25Correlation between ECG and Cardiac Cycle
A cardiac action potential originates in the SA node and spreads throughout the atria and the AV node in approximately 0.03 seconds. This results in the P wave in an ECG and triggers atrial contraction. The action potential is then briefly slowed at the AV node, allowing the atria to contract and fill the ventricles with blood before...
01:13Special considerations while measuring pulse