The Effect of Extrinsic Factors on Indoor 20k time Trial Performance

Abstract

During time trials cyclists start individually with a uniform time gap between riders. With the exception of the first and last cyclists all riders will be chasing riders ahead and attempting to stay in front of those chasing from behind. Cyclists will also know finishing times of competitors who finished before them. PURPOSE: To determine if the knowledge of competitors prior performance times and racing next to a chase or lead opponent will influence performance during a simulated 20k time trial. METHODS: Eight male cyclists performed four 20k indoor time trials (Computrainer). During the base/familiarization trial (T1) individuals time trialed as fast as possible. Subjects were then ranked fastest to slowest. Prior to the start of trial 2 (T2) subjects were shown times and rank order from T1 and attempted to move up in rank. After T2 subjects were ranked again and paired with the closest competitor. Two Computrainers were arranged side by side (both easily read by both competitors). Subjects were alternately positioned to lead (TL) and chase (TC) in trials 3 and 4. TL and TC were counter balanced. Means for time, mean power (MP), ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and heart rate (HR) were recorded and compared using repeated measures ANOVA (alpha= 0.05). RESULTS: There were no significant differences for HR or RPE among trials. T2 (33.84±1.38 min) was significantly faster than T1 (34.80±2.25 min) and MP was significantly greater (T1 = 229±36W, T2 = 243±24W). Time for TC (33.52±1.33min) was significantly faster than T1 (34.80±2.25min) with MP between T1 (229±36W) and the TC (248±21W) approaching significance (p=.063). There were no significant differences found between TL, TC, and T2 for dependent measures. CONCLUSIONS: The extrinsic factors of chasing or being chased did not appear to impact overall performance. Knowledge of T1 performance may have positively affected T2 performance by providing extrinsic motivation.