Comprehensive reliability analysis of a 16 km simulated cycling time-trial in well-trained individuals

Abstract

The aim of this study was to comprehensively determine the reliability of performance and physiological measurements during a simulated 16 km cycling time-trial (TT), without (Part A) and with (Part B) a familiarisation session using a battery of statistical tests. Fifty well-trained cyclists performed a simulated 16 km cycling TT test on two (Part A) or three (Part B) occasions. Mean power output (MPO), blood lactate and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded following completion of 25, 50, 75, 90 and 100 % of the test. Overall MPO was analysed using intraclass correlations (r), systematic bias and ratio limits of agreement, coefficient of variation (CV) and t-tests. Pacing data, blood lactate and RPE were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey tests for post hoc comparisons. Overall MPO in Part A (p = 0.11, d = 0.08, r = 0.95, CV = 3.04 ± 2.25 %) and in Part B (p = 0.72, d = 0.05, r = 0.87, CV = 2.93 ± 2.65 %) was not different between trials. MPO, blood lactate and RPE were not different between trials at any time point in Part A and B. The simulated cycling TT was shown to be reliable using a battery of statistical tests in well-trained cyclists, with and without a familiarisation session.