Intra-segment coordination variability in road cyclists during pedaling at different intensities

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study is to examine the lower extremity intra-segment coordination and variability of road cyclists during pedaling at different intensities. Methods: Eleven semi-professional road cyclists perform four trials at workloads of 50%, 75%, 100%, and 125% of their maximum power output in a randomized order. Thigh, shank, and foot range of motions (ROM) and the coordination and variability of these segments are compared across different pedaling intensities. Results: Foot ROM in the sagittal plane and shank ROM in the transverse plane are significantly different between different pedaling intensities. Moreover, specific coupling patterns and variabilities are observed across the pedaling cycle; however, they were not significantly different across different pedaling intensities in four pedaling phases. Conclusion: The results highlight the role of knee extensors and plantar flexors during the first and second half of the propulsion phase of pedaling, respectively. Thigh abduction dominancy with faster movement compared to the shank indicates a more valgus stress during the propulsive phase of pedaling, which can increase the risk of overuse injuries in the knee. Moreover, the smaller variability during the transition between the propulsive and recovery phases indicates a reduction in degrees of freedom and may increase the risk of overuse injuries.