The choice of freely preferred cadence by trained nonprofessional cyclists may not be characterized by mechanical efficiency

Abstract

AbstractBackground:Most cycling studies involve professional cyclists. Because training may affect riding style, it is of interest to determine the physiological basis for the personal choice of cycling cadence in nonprofessional cyclists.Methods:Eleven nonprofessional (5.2±1.7-year-riding experience) male road cyclists, aged 35.0±11.0 years, underwent four separate laboratory test sessions. The first two sessions included habituation, anthropometry,Results:expired ventilationConclusions:Our findings indicate that mechanical and physiological efficiencies may not determine the choice of cycling cadence by nonprofessional cyclists. This choice may reflect the need to maintain endurance at the expense of riding at a lower than optimal riding efficiency.