EXTERNAL WORK BILATERAL SYMMETRY DURING INCREMENTAL CYCLING EXERCISE

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to compare the bilateral external work and torque at four stages of an incremental maximal cycling. Eleven cyclists were evaluated on a cycle ergometer. Four stages of the incremental cycling workload were defined as 60, 75, 90 and 100% of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2Max). Pedal forces and kinematics variables were measured through each stage. Crank torque and external work were computed (both sides). Crank work and torque increased throughout the incremental test. There were no differences between legs in relation to work and torque at the crank. The high variability of force symmetry between subjects, and between days may indicate the difference of our results compared to previous studies.