The Older Cyclist: Anthropometric, Physiological, and Psychosocial Changes Observed During a Trans-Canada Cycle Tour

Abstract

ABSTRACTA group of Canadian senior citizens (n = 22) who bicycled 7700 km across Canada, from Victoria, B.C. to St. Johns, Newfoundland, over 100 days in the summer of 1983 were the subjects of this study. Each was tested on three occasions: 2 days prior to commencement of the tour, at the geographical mid-point of the tour and within 2 days of tour completion. Comprehensive anthropometric data were collected along with evaluation of fitness and blood chemistry on all three testing occasions. Participants were also asked a series of questions designed to ascertain positive and negative psycho-social experiences and to assess their anxiety level. Generally the cyclists reated well to the tour, exhibiting objective evidence of increased fitness in the absence of negative physical or psychological changes. Self-report data indicated that subjects generally enjoyed the tour, felt their endurance had increased, and perceived other improvements such as increased self-confidence, reduced anxiety, and improved appetite.