The Effect of Different Motocross Circuit Typologies on Internal Load and External Load Responses in Riders

Abstract

Background: Several physical and physiological changes occur during a motocross race, mainly due to the type of circuits, and therefore the impact of different types of circuits on training load responses continues to need to be fully clarified. Objective: The main aim of the present study was to compare the internal load and external load responses of motocross riders from different classes and on circuits of different types. Method: A quasi experimental design research was used in the study.The sample consisted of 10 motocross riders (28.10 ± 7.53 years; 74.60 ± 9.70 kg; 176.50 ± 7.18 cm; 23.88 ± 2.18 BMI), male., distributed by the Mx Elite and Mx Hobby categories. The pilots were evaluated before and after the race in relation to indicators of external load (accelerations and decelerations, maximum speed and average speed and impacts) and internal load (Heart rate, blood lactate and rating of perceived exertion) on two circuits of different types. Results: There was a trend towards higher internal load responses in the Mx Hobby class compared to the Mx Elite class (p ≤ 0.05), regardless of the circuit. Regarding external load responses, the Mx Hobby class has a tendency towards higher maximum and average speeds, while the Mx Elite class presents the same tendency for accelerations and decelerations. Conclusions: Different circuit types appear to influence pilots’ internal load and external load responses.