Examining pacing profiles in elite female road cyclists using exposure variation analysis.
OBJECTIVE
In this study, the amplitude and time distribution of power output in a variety of competitive cycling events through the use of a new mathematical analysis was examined: exposure variation analysis (EVA).


METHODS
Descriptive field study.


METHODS
Various professional road cycling events, including; a 5-day-eight-stage tour race, a 1-day World Cup event and the Australian National Individual Time Trial Championships.


METHODS
9 elite female cyclists (mean (SD), mass = 57.8 (3.4) kg, height = 167.3 (2.8) cm, Vo(2)peak = 63.2 (5.2) ml kg(-1) min(-1)).


METHODS
None.


METHODS
The variation in power output and the quantification of the total time and acute time spent at various exercise intensities during competitive professional cycling were examined. Predefined levels of exercise intensity that elicited first ventilation threshold, second ventilation threshold and maximal aerobic power were determined from a graded exercise test performed before the events and compared with power output during each event.


RESULTS
EVA exposed that power output during the time trial was highly variable (EVA(SD) = 2.81 (0.33)) but more evenly distributed than the circuit/criterium (4.23 (0.31)) and road race events (4.81 (0.96)).


CONCLUSIONS
EVA may be useful for illustrating variations in the amplitude and time distribution of power output during cycling events. The specific race format influenced not only the overall time spent in various power bands, but also the acute time spent at these exercise intensities.
Abbiss
C R
CR
School of Exercise, Biomedical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, 100 Joondalup Dr, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia. c.abbiss@ecu.edu.au
Straker
L
L
Quod
M J
MJ
Martin
D T
DT
Laursen
P B
PB
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D054874:Athletic Performance / Q000502:physiology; D001642:Bicycling / Q000502:physiology*; D004734:Energy Metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010101:Oxygen Consumption / Q000502:physiology*; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology*