The effects of temperature on cycling performance - Scientific Report

Internal Code: My Uni Paper13

Scientific Report:

Studies have shown that prolonged exercising in heat results in increased fatigue and a decrease in performance. However, the reasons for this still remain unclear. The aim of this study was to determine how various temperatures affected the performance of cyclists on a 40km time trial. Eight male cyclists completed four 40km-timed trials under differing temperatures (17 0 C, 22 0 C, 27 0 C and 32 0 C). Trials were conducted in an environmental chamber. The bike used was an electromagnetically braked cycle ergometer. Three variables, power output, heart rate, and core body temperature were recorded during the trial. Power output (in Watts) was recorded at a frequency of 1 Hertz. Heart rate was recorded at a beat-by-beat frequency using a Polar heart monitor, and core body temperature was recorded using a rectal thermometer (self-inserted) attached to a data-logger which recorded at a frequency of 1 Hz. Participants received no verbal encouragement during the trials. Questions: 1) A statement of main findings 2) Relates the findings to aim of the study 3) Critically evaluates, relates and compares findings with those of other studies 4) Discussion of any limitations of the study