Testing for acceleration performance in elite sprint track cyclists: A cross-sectional analysis

The initial acceleration phase is a critical determinant of overall performance in sprint track cycling and requires a high level of mechanical power. This study examined the relationship between a specific 6-second all-out test on a cycle ergometer, non-specific countermovement jump (CMJ), and acceleration performance in elite sprint track cyclists.

Fourteen elite male sprint track cyclists performed three tests: specific 6-second peak power test (PPO) on a cycle ergometer Wattbike Pro (PPT_6s), non-specific countermovement jump (CMJ), and track-based acceleration tests on 62.5 m. Paired t-tests were used to analyze differences in mechanical power between assessments (PPT_6s vs CMJ), and Pearson's correlation was employed to examine the relationship between the variables.

PPO generated in the PPT_6s was 2.3 times lower than calculated from CMJ (p < 0.001). The statistical analysis revealed very large correlations between the tests' results and acceleration performance (from r = -0.72 to -0.87) depending on absolute or relative values. Track-based acceleration test time was the highest related to CMJ height (r = -0.87, p < 0.001) and relative mean power generated in the PPT_6s (r = -0.86, p < 0.001).

Key parameters from CMJ and PPT_6s are largely correlated with each other and acceleration performance in elite sprint track male cyclists. Therefore, they can be utilized in sprint track cycling tests, providing valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and practitioners. Further research with a longitudinal approach that allows for tracking changes and the interplay between the analyzed variables is warranted.