Physiological Correlates Of Cyclocross Performance

Cyclocross is a discipline of cycling that involves racing a circuit over varied road and off-road terrain. The sport is characterized by intermittent changes in intensity as athletes navigate through the technical elements of the course including barriers, off-camber sections, turns, and steep ascents and descents. PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between aerobic and anaerobic fitness variables and cyclocross performance. METHODS: Ten experienced (USAC category 2 or 3) male cyclocross riders participated in the study (VO2max 55.9 ± 4.4 mL.kg-1.min-1, age 38.7 ± 4.7 years, mass 75.1 ± 7.7 kg, height 174.9 ± 6.2 cm, body fat 11.5 ± 2.7%). The cyclists completed two randomized aerobic or anaerobic laboratory sessions separated by a minimum of 48 hr. Aerobic values of VO2max and OBLA were measured during a graded exercise test on a cycle ergometer. Anaerobic values of peak and mean power were measured during a 30-s Wingate Anaerobic Test. A correlation analysis was conducted to determine which variables demonstrated the strongest relationship with USA Cycling points. RESULTS: VO2max (r = -.72, p = .019) and mean relative anaerobic power (W/kg) (r = -.72, p = .019) were significantly linearly related to USAC points obtained. While not statistically significant (all ps > .05), peak absolute anaerobic power (W) (r = -.43), peak relative anaerobic power (W/kg) (r = -.52), and mean absolute anaerobic power (W) (r = -.46) demonstrated a moderate strength of relationship. OBLA (W) and OBLA (VO2) were both statistically non-significant and had weak correlation coefficients. CONCLUSION: Maximal measures of performance may be more important considerations for success in cyclocross racing than submaximal measures. Cyclocross requires athletes to sustain repeated explosive efforts with limited periods of recovery. Anaerobic power to perform those efforts and aerobic power to recover quickly are associated with success in the sport. This research was supported by a Faculty Research and Scholarship Fund Grant from the Research Advisory Council at Plymouth State University.