EFFECT OF AN EXPERIMENTAL PEDAL ON MAXIMAL POWER OUTPUT AND PEDALLING TECHNIQUE IN TRAINED CYCLISTS

Authors

  • Erwin Koninckx
  • Marc van Leemputte

Keywords:

isokinetic cycling, power output, torque-velocity relationship

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of an experimental pedal system (EP) on maximal isokinetic power generation and pedalling technique during cycling of well trained cyclists. Compared to habitual pedals (HP), in EP the foot contact area with respect to the pedal axis was located more inferior and anterior, which affects the distance between the crank axis and the point of force application (Functional crankarm length, Fcal) during the pedalling cycle. Since Martin (2001) showed enhanced propulsive torque in the downstroke of the pedalling cycle with longer crankarm length, we hypothesized EP to improve maximal isokinetic power output (P) and that the improvement is related to Fcal.

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Published

2007-10-20

Issue

24 International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports (2006)

Section

Equipment / Instrumentation

License

Authors can retain copyright, while granting the International Society of Biomechanics in Sports (ISBS) the right of first publication.