Abstract

It was the aim of this investigation to compare time to exhaustion and selected measures of ventilation, gas exchange and pulmonary function when using aero style handlebars versus standard racing style handlebars during long term exercise. 11 well trained cyclists completed two continuous rides at 80-95 VO2max. Subjects rode at 80 VO2max for 1 h and work rate was increased by 5 VO2max every 15 min thereafter. Rides were completed with the subject riding his personal bicycle on a Velodyne trainer, one ride with aero style handlebars the other with standard racing handlebars. Subjects rode with standard racing handlebars for 69.3+-5.3 min as compared to 59.8+-7.0 min with aero style handlebars. Average work rates by termination were 268.1+-38.4 (aero) and 276.4+-39.3 (standard) watts. Oxygen consumption and minute ventilation during the first hour were similar between aero and standard rides. In addition, tidal volume breathing frequency and the time components of the breathing period, inspiratory and expiratory time, were similar between the two rides. Results suggest that there are not ventilatory or pulmonary limitations as a result of riding with aero style handlebars. While mean differences in riding time were not statistically significant, individual subjects did show large differences in riding times. These appear to be related to whether or not the subjects had previously trained with aero style handlebars. Individuals who chose to race with aero style handlebars should also train with them. Verf.-Referat (gekuerzt)