Abstract
Running performance is crucial for triathlon performance. However, the prior bout
of cycling may affect the running split time. This study compared the
triathletes’ cycling plus running (C+R) time, when cycling was performed at
three different intensities and running was maximal. A total of 38 athletes (21
males and 17 females) were included. Body composition, maximal oxygen uptake,
and functional threshold power (FTP) was evaluated. The participants visited the
laboratory three times to cycle 20 km at 80%, 85%, or 90% FTP (in randomized
order) and run 5 km as fast as possible. Males ran faster after cycling at 80%
FTP than after cycling at 90% FTP (mean difference=35.1 s; CI% 2.2, 68.1 s;
p=0.035). The C+R time was faster when cycling at 90% FTP than at 80% FTP (mean
difference=57.7 s; CI% 26.1, 89.3 s; p<0.001). For females, no significant
difference was observed in the running time after cycling at 80%, 85%, or 90%
FTP. The C+R time was faster when cycling at 90% FTP than at 80% FTP (mean
difference=80.9 s; CI% 29.7, 132.1 s; p=0.002). In conclusion, to optimize
triathlon performance, male and female athletes should cycle at a minimum of 90%
FTP.
Keywords
cycling time - running time - performance - triathlon - functional threshold power
