The effect of cycling cadences on the coordination of mono- and bi-articular muscles

Abstract

Numerous researchers have investigated the reasons that cyclists use different pedaling cadences, or why a given cyclist uses one particular cadence. Although experienced riders choose cadences of 90-110 revolutions per minute (rpm), several authors have noted that lower cadences (50-60 rpm) should be the most economical from a physiological view point. Minimization of joint moments or muscle stress has been proposed as a biomechanical reason for cadence preference. The purpose of this study was to examine the coordination of selected pairs of mono- and bi-articular antagonists in the lower extremity during cycling at different cadences. It was found that the mono-articular hip joint extensor gluteus maximus (GM) exhibited an earlier onset of activity in the higher cadence condition, possibly due to the increased importance of the lower extremity inertial characteristics. The relationships between hip and knee mono-articular joint extensors (GM and vastus lateralis) and their bi-articular antagonists (rectus femoris and gastrocnemius) were altered by the change of cadence.