The Rise of Elite Short-Course Triathlon Re-Emphasises the Necessity to Transition Efficiently from Cycling to Running

Abstract

Transitioning efficiently between cycling and running is considered an indication of overall performance, and as a result the cycle–run (C–R) transition is one of the most researched areas of triathlon. Previous studies have thoroughly investigated the impact of prior cycling on running performance. However, with the increasing number of short-course events and the inclusion of the mixed relay at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, efficiently transitioning from cycle–run has been re-emphasised and with it, any potential limitations to running performance among elite triathletes. This short communication provides coaches and sports scientists a review of the literature detailing the negative effects of prior variable-cycling on running performance experienced among elite, short-course and Olympic distance triathletes; as well as discussing practical methods to minimise any negative impact of cycling on running performance. The current literature suggests that variable-cycling negatively effects running ability in at least some elite triathletes and that improving swimming performance, drafting during cycling and C–R training at race intensity could improve an athlete’s triathlon running performance. It is recommended that future research clearly define the performance level, competitive format of the experimental population and use protocols that are specific to the experimental population in order to improve the training and practical application of the research findings.

Exercise Intensity during Olympic-Distance Triathlon in Well-Trained Age-Group Athletes: An Observational Study

“…Millet and Vleck [ 7 ] stated that the first transition (i.e., swim–cycle transition) is regarded as having a negligible effect on overall performance during the nondraft legal OD race. Meanwhile, a number of studies reported the effects of prior exercise on subsequent running [ 7 , 8 , 59 , 60 , 61 ] and the cycle–run transition is traditionally considered to be more important on performance during an OD race [ 7 , 8 ]. Prior cycling induces physiological/cardiorespiratory and biomechanical changes during subsequent running [ 8 ].…”

“…Meanwhile, a number of studies reported the effects of prior exercise on subsequent running [ 7 , 8 , 59 , 60 , 61 ] and the cycle–run transition is traditionally considered to be more important on performance during an OD race [ 7 , 8 ]. Prior cycling induces physiological/cardiorespiratory and biomechanical changes during subsequent running [ 8 ]. Several studies have reported that such changes (usually negative effects) might be related to the performance level of triathletes [ 62 , 63 , 64 , 65 , 66 ].…”

“…It is necessary to discern the physiological response and requirements during competition to optimize training and recovery, and to identify factors associated with performance. The efficient transition between two sequential legs of the triathlon has received considerable attention, e.g., the swim–cycle [ 5 , 6 ] and cycle–run [ 7 , 8 ] transitions have been well studied. Additionally, previous studies have assessed the acute consequences induced by the OD race, which include muscle [ 9 , 10 ] and intestinal damage [ 9 ], muscle fatigue [ 10 ], dehydration (>2%–4% body mass due to high sweat rates and high core temperatures, i.e., >39 °C) [ 11 , 12 ], systemic inflammation [ 13 ], transient immune suppression [ 14 ], reduced pulmonary diffusing capacity [ 15 ], and decreased aerobic exercise capacity [ 16 , 17 ].…”

Comparison of Joint Kinematics in Transition Running and Isolated Running in Elite Triathletes in Overground Conditions

“…In a triathlon, the smooth transitioning from cycling to running is considered to be crucial for optimal performance in the final running part and the overall result [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. The ability to quickly find one’s personal running pattern is of great importance, which contributes to optimal processes in muscular control and energy supply [ 1 , 4 , 5 , 6 ].…”

“…For all triathlon distances, athletes have to cope with what they colloquially describe as “brick running” (it feels like “hitting a wall of bricks”) or “running on eggs” at the beginning of the running section. This sense of incoordination, which is not found in isolated running, may result in altered running kinematics triggered by prior cycling [ 2 , 7 , 8 ].…”