Can the Lamberts and Lambert Submaximal Cycle Test Indicate Fatigue and Recovery in Trained Cyclists?
The Lamberts and Lambert Submaximal Cycle Test (LSCT) is a novel test designed to monitor performance and fatigue/recovery in cyclists. Studies have shown the ability to predict performance; however, there is a lack of studies concerning monitoring of fatigue/recovery. In this study, 23 trained male cyclists (age 29 ± 8 y, VO2max 59.4 ± 7.4 mL · min(-1) · kg(-1)) completed a training camp. The LSCT was conducted on days 1, 8, and 11. After day 1, an intensive 6-day training period was performed. Between days 8 and 11, a recovery period was realized. The LSCT consists of 3 stages with fixed heart rates of 6 min at 60% and 80% and 3 min at 90% of maximum heart rate. During the stages, power output and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were determined. Heart-rate recovery was measured after stage 3. Power output almost certainly (standardized mean difference: 1.0) and RPE very likely (1.7) increased from day 1 to day 8 at stage 2. Power output likely (0.4) and RPE almost certainly (2.6) increased at stage 3. From day 8 to day 11, power output possibly (-0.4) and RPE likely (-1.5) decreased at stage 2 and possibly (-0.1) and almost certainly (-1.9) at stage 3. Heart-rate recovery was likely (0.7) accelerated from day 1 to day 8. Changes from day 8 to day 11 were unclear (-0.1). The LSCT can be used for monitoring fatigue and recovery, since parameters were responsive to a fatiguing training and a following recovery period. However, consideration of multiple LSCT variables is required to interpret the results correctly.
Inst of Sports and Preventive Medicine, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany.
Daniel
D
Hammes
Sabrina
S
Skorski
Sascha
S
Schwindling
Alexander
A
Ferrauti
Mark
M
Pfeiffer
Michael
M
Kellmann
Tim
T
Meyer
D000328:Adult; D056352:Athletes; D054874:Athletic Performance / Q000502:physiology*; D001642:Bicycling / Q000502:physiology*; D005080:Exercise Test; D006339:Heart Rate; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018763:Muscle Fatigue / Q000502:physiology*; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D010807:Physical Endurance; D005082:Physical Exertion; D013997:Time Factors; D055815:Young Adult