Int J Sports Med 2011; 32(2): 132-136
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1268440
Training & Testing

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

The Effect of Variable Gradients on Pacing in Cycling Time-Trials

P. Cangley1 , L. Passfield2 , H. Carter1 , M. Bailey1
  • 1University of Brighton, Chelsea School, Eastbourne, United Kingdom
  • 2University of Kent, Centre for Sports Studies, Chatham Maritime, United Kingdom
Further Information

Publication History

accepted after revision October 08, 2010

Publication Date:
16 December 2010 (online)

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Abstract

It has been reported that performance in cycling time-trials is enhanced when power is varied in response to gradient although such a mechanical pacing strategy has never been confirmed experimentally in the field. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess the efficacy of mechanical pacing by comparing a constant power strategy of 255 W with a variable power strategy that averaged to 255 W over an undulating time-trial course. 20 experienced cyclists completed 4 trials over a 4 km course with 2 trials at an average constant power of 253 W and 2 trials where power was varied in response to gradient and averaged 260 W. Time normalised to 255 W was 411±31.1 s for the constant power output trials and 399±29.5 s for the variable power output trials. The variable power output strategy therefore reduced completion time by 12±8 s (2.9%) which was significant (p<0.001). Participants experienced difficulty in applying a constant power strategy over an undulating course which acted to reduce their time gain. It is concluded that a variable power strategy can improve cycling performance in a field time-trial where the gradient is not constant.

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