Experiments in Human Ergometry as Applied to the Design of Human Powered Vehicles

Abstract

A comparison of six methods of measuring maximal human power output is given. The methods are as follows: the standard bicycle ergometer and modified bicycle ergometer (revised so that a standard racing bicycle and a higher applied torque could be used); a bicycle ridden on a treadmill; an unbraked flywheel bicycle ergometer; power using bicycle wind and rolling resistance measurements; running up stairs with weights; and running up a ramp with weights. Power output was. measured for time periods varying from less than 1 sec to 20 min. Power from the different methods agreed quite well. Example data are given for leg exercise, arm and leg exercise, and cycling in the prone, supine, and standard cycling positions.