The Biomechanics Of Standing And Seating Maximal Cycling Power

Abstract

Previously it has been shown that maximal standing cycling power exceeds seated power in Wingate testing [∼30 seconds] and inertial load testing [∼4 seconds], however the biomechanical basis of this additional power generation remains uninvestigated. PURPOSE The purpose of this investigation was to examine the biomechanics of producing maximal cycling power in both the standing and seated position. METHODS Five trained cyclists [Mean(SD); Age = 27(8) yrs, Height = 173(5)cm, Mass = 70(8)kg] performed maximal 5-second cycling trials on an isokinetic cycling ergometer at 120rpm. Pedal forces, and pedal and crank position were sampled at 240Hz. Hip position was recorded with a 2-camera motion capture system. Two-dimensional leg kinematics were computed using the geometric relationships of the 5-bar linkage. Net joint moments were determined using inverse dynamic techniques. Joint powers for the ankle, knee, and hip were calculated as the product of net joint moment and joint angular velocity. RESULTS Maximal power produced at the crank was significantly greater for the standing versus the seated position [583(51) vs. 516(41) watts]. However, powers produced at the ankle, knee and hip did not differ. Power delivered to the crank by the upper body segment [Hip joint reaction force power] was significantly greater in the standing versus seated position [100(15) vs. 49(8) watts].FigureCONCLUSIONS These data suggest that maximal standing cycling power exceeds maximal seated cycling power due to the ability of the upper body segment to deliver power to the crank, whereas joint powers produced at the ankle, knee and hip did not differ.