Physiological Response to Cyclocross Racing

Abstract

Introduction: Cyclocross is a growing discipline of cycling that combines elements of both mountain biking and road racing. The purpose of the study was to describe the intensity of the sport of cyclocross using competition heart rate (HR) and blood lactate [La -] data. Methods: Eight experienced cyclocross racers participated in both a laboratory graded exercise test and a cyclocross race. During laboratory testing, peak oxygen consumption (V O 2peak ) was determined and HR at the following intensities was established: LOW (HR below 2 mmol . L -1 ), MODERATE (MOD, HR between 2 and 4 mmol . L -1 ), and HIGH (HR above 4 mmol

Discriminating performance profiles of cycling disciplines

“…Cyclo-cross cyclists might benefit from these characteristics as they are required to dismount and remount their bikes throughout a race, perform rapid changes in intensity and technical elements on the course. 44 Whilst previous research indicates that anthropometric differences should be evident for each discipline, 11,13,16,36,45 the body composition of athletes in the three other cycling disciplines were similar in the current study. It should be noted, however, that the current test battery only includes the basic anthropometric measurements.…”

“…As the shuttle bike test requires agility and bike handling skills it reflects the characteristics of MTB and cyclo-cross. 17,19,44…”