Predicting the Sprint Performance of Adolescent Track Cyclists Using the 3-Minute All-out Test. Issue 8 (August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Waldron, Mark; Gray, Adrian; Furlan, Nicola; Murphy, Aron
• Is Part Of: Journal of strength and conditioning research. Volume 30:Issue 8(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-08
• Subjects: critical power -- children -- anthropometry -- time trials -- cycling; Physical education and training -- Periodicals; Weight training -- Physiological aspects -- Periodicals; Physical fitness -- Periodicals; 613.7
• DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000001311
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1064-8011

Abstract

Abstract : Abstract: Waldron, M, Gray, A, Furlan, N, and Murphy, A. Predicting the sprint performance of adolescent track cyclists using the 3-minute all-out test. J Strength Cond Res 30(8): 2299–2306, 2016—This study aimed to predict 500-m time trial (TT) and 2, 000-m pursuit speed of adolescent cyclists (age range = 13–15 years) using mechanical parameters derived from a critical power (CP) test and anthropometric variables. Ten well-trained competitive cyclists were assessed for body composition, body mass, stature, and frontal surface area (FSA), as well as completing the CP test. The personal best speed (km·h −1 ) of each rider during competition in 500-m TT and 2, 000-m pursuit races was predicted based on the CP test data and anthropometric profiles using multiple regression analysis. A combination of the CP·FSA −1 and internal (predicted) to external work ratio performed by the cyclists (Wint :Wext ) predicted 500-m TT speed ( R 2 = 0.97; standard error of the estimate (SEE) = 0.82, P ⩽ 0.001), whereas a combination of mean power·FSA −1 (mean power) and body fat percentage predicted 2, 000-m pursuit speed ( R 2 = 0.90; SEE = 1.5, p < 0.001). Between 90 and 97% of the variance in the sprint performance of adolescent cyclists can be explained by mechanical and anthropometric parameters, derived from a single visit to the laboratory. The tests and equations provided can be adopted by coaches to predict performance and set appropriate training intensities.