Abstract
Transitioning efficiently between cycling and running is considered an indication of overall performance, and as a result the cycle–run (C–R) transition is one of the most researched areas of triathlon. Previous studies have thoroughly investigated the impact of prior cycling on running performance. However, with the increasing number of short-course events and the inclusion of the mixed relay at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, efficiently transitioning from cycle–run has been re-emphasised and with it, any potential limitations to running performance among elite triathletes. This short communication provides coaches and sports scientists a review of the literature detailing the negative effects of prior variable-cycling on running performance experienced among elite, short-course and Olympic distance triathletes; as well as discussing practical methods to minimise any negative impact of cycling on running performance. The current literature suggests that variable-cycling negatively effects running ability in at least some elite triathletes and that improving swimming performance, drafting during cycling and C–R training at race intensity could improve an athlete’s triathlon running performance. It is recommended that future research clearly define the performance level, competitive format of the experimental population and use protocols that are specific to the experimental population in order to improve the training and practical application of the research findings.
Highlights
Triathlon comprises several different racing formats (Table 1.) that can be generally categorised as short-course; Olympic distance; or long-course (70.3/Ironman)
Among those elite triathletes whose running performance is impacted by prior cycling, the effects are likely to have a substantially negative influence on overall performance; while increased variability of muscle recruitment patterns and altered stride mechanics during the early phase of C–R is evident among some elite triathletes and is more likely to be present in athletes with a history of ERLP
The current evidence available shows that variable-cycling has minimal effect of running performance in elite triathletes
Summary
Triathlon comprises several different racing formats (Table 1.) that can be generally categorised as short-course (super sprint/sprint); Olympic distance (short-distance/standard); or long-course (70.3/Ironman). Each category of triathlon places substantially different physical demands on the athletes [1], such as short-course triathlon (super-sprint/sprint distance) involving producing repetitive, high-intensity efforts due to the technical courses [2] changing the physiological demands of this type of triathlon [3], compared to the consistent, steady-state paced efforts required during long-course triathlon. Union (ITU) World Triathlon Series (WTS), as well as the advent of the Super League Triathlon series (variable short-course distances), and the inclusion of the mixed relay event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the relative importance of efficiently transitioning from C–R during triathlon, during short-course formats, is re-emphasised and with it, any potential limitations to running performance. Criterium-style bike leg, relatively technical technical courses, highly tactical, drafting/non-drafting, emphasis on C–R transition. Draft/non drafting bike leg, some technical aspects technical courses, highly tactical, drafting/non-drafting, emphasis on C–R transition energy conservation/minimising physical effort.
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