Influence of Biomechanical Parameters on Performance in Elite Triathletes along 29 Weeks of Training

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to assess how the modification of biomechanical parameters influences the performance of elite triathletes. Four elite international triathletes participated in this study. The anthropometric method ISAK was used to estimate the triathlete’s body composition. For the physiological and biomechanical parameters, a running test (RT) was performed on an outdoor track, with the participants wearing the Stryd Summit Footpod (Stryd, Boulder, CO, USA). The pre-test took place in the last week of an adaptation mesocycle; then, after 29 weeks of training, the triathletes performed the post-test. A within-subject repeated measures design was used to assess changes in the anthropometric, physiological and biomechanical parameters. Pearson correlations (r) were applied to determine the relationship between the performance at different intensities (VT1, VT2 and MAS) and the biomechanical parameters. Concerning the anthropometric characteristics, significant differences were found in the summation (Σ) of skinfold (8.1 cm); as a consequence, the % fat mass was reduced (1.2%). Significant differences were found in the physiological values (VO2 and % VO2max), speed and biomechanical parameters, such as step length normalized, to the specific physiological intensity of the short-distance triathlon, the VT2. Therefore, performance improvement in the running segment could not only be explained by physiological changes, but also by biomechanical parameters changes.