An investigation into the effectiveness of core muscle strengthening on cycling performance in asymptomatic cyclists

Abstract

Background : Core strengthening may improve athletic ability by providing stability to the trunk, and as a result, stabilising the pelvis. The leverage from which cyclists generate power may be enhanced as a result of a stable pelvis, thereby improving the cyclist’s performance. In the popular, highly competitive sport of cycling, performance enhancement is much sought after. Despite its widespread use, research involving core strengthening in sporting situations is lacking, with studies investigating the effect of a core strengthening programme on cycling performance yet to be investigated. Objectives : To determine the participants’ cycling speed, power, cadence and completion time, and core strength in terms of objective findings, pre- and post- core strengthening intervention, in the whole sample and within the two age strata. To determine the participants’ heart rate in terms of objective findings, and the rate of perceived exertion in terms of subjective findings, pre- and post- core strengthening intervention, in the whole sample and within the two age strata. To determine the participants’ perception of change in speed, power and cadence post- intervention, in the whole sample and within the two age strata. Method : Forty-two asymptomatic cyclists performed two 1.5 km time trials, pre- and post- core strengthening intervention. Core strength assessments were performed pre- and post- intervention, using the Pressure Biofeedback Unit, and the maximum and average speed (km/hr), power (w) and cadence (rpm), and completion time (s) were recorded pre- and post- intervention, using the Computerised Electromagnetic Roller resistance Ergometer (Tacx Trainer). Heart rate and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded pre- and post- intervention, as well as the participant’s perception of change in speed, power, and cadence post- intervention. SPSS version 20 (SPSS Inc) was used to analyse the data, in the whole sample and stratified into two age strata. Results : ll cycling performance indicators, speed, power, cadence and completion time showed a significant improvement post- intervention, in the whole sample, and within the two age strata. Core strength indicators showed a significant improvement post- intervention, in the whole sample and within the two age strata. A significant decrease in rate of perceived exertion and corresponding heart rate measurements post- intervention was observed in the whole sample. Similarly, the younger age strata reflected a significant decrease in rate of perceived exertion, however heart rate measurements were not significant. In contrast, the older age strata showed significant changes in heart rate measurements, with no significance in rate of perceived exertion measurements. The majority of participants experienced an increased perception in all outcomes post- intervention. Conclusions: The results of this study found that core strengthening had a statistically significant effect (p < 0.001) on cycling performance, both in terms of objective and subjective findings. Future studies could address the effect of core strengthening in an endurance setting.