Additional weight on the bike can have a significantly deleterious affect on bike velocity. In fact, non-functional weight has a quadruple effect in slowing a bike down because:
1) additional weight increases inertia, thus slow the acceleration rate
2) additional weight slows hill climbing
3) additional weight increases rolling resistance and
4) increased fat mass has a significantly affects the frontal surface area, thus affects the athletes aerodynamic profile (2).
The percentage of VO2max that an athlete can sustain can determine their athletic success. Power output at lactate threshold is one of the largest predictors of cycling performance (1). By having a lactate threshold test performed, the cyclist/ triathlete will know the power output and HR at lactate threshold (Petersen Performance Lab now uses three different points of lactate threshold) and this information can then be used for planning training and competition strategies.
The thirty-minute indoor time trial test is used to determine the effects of training and serves as an indicator of cycling fitness (1). The indoor time trial test in not influenced by environmental conditions or aerodynamics. Results from the thirty minute indoor time trial can reliably and accurately reflect time trial cycling fitness (2), which is obviously important for cyclists, but is equally important for triathletes, as triathletes complete a time trial between the swim and run leg of the triathlon. The average heart rate and power output that the athlete sustains during the 30-minute time trial can be used to guide future workouts.
Petersen Performance Lab is offering a discounted two part-testing program. The first visit will include anthropometric testing (body mass and body composition testing) and a bike lactate threshold test. Results will be e-mailed to the athlete within 48 hours after the test and will include the athletes body mass index, percent body fat, three points of lactate threshold HR and power output (Watts), and suggested training zones based on HR and power output. The second visit (which must occur within 10 days of the first visit) will involve the 30-minute time trial. Results from this test will include average HR and power output and will be e-mailed to the athlete within 48 hours of the test. It is important that the day preceding both tests is a light training day or rest day. Furthermore, the athlete should not eat within 2 hours of the test and be adequately hydrated. The regular price for both tests is $308 But Petersen Performance Lab is offering the tests for $195 during the remaining days of June and the month of July.
1. Faria EW, Parker DL, Faria IE. The Science of Cycling: Physiology and Training-Part 1. Sports Med. 2005;35(4): 285-312.
2. Gore, J.C. Physiological Tests for Elite Athletes. Champaign (IL): Human Kinetics; 2000. 263p.
