Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to establish age norms for the physiological profile of Belgian cyclists, and to compare high level competitive cyclists with the average group. A total of 406 cyclists were tested, subdivided in distinct age categories and including 17 cyclists selected to participate in the World championship for amateurs, and 40 professional cyclists. Physiological profile was evaluated from measurements of body dimensions, muscle strength, and from the response to a maximal exercise test on the bicycle ergometer. The profile of competitive cyclists was characterized by high values for vital capacity, heart volume, isometric strength of the leg extensors, PWC 170 and V02max, and these characteristics were already present in adolescent cyclists. When high level cyclists are compared to the average group, we found no difference in body dimensions or in muscle strength, a small difference in V02max, and a very marked difference in PWC 170. During growth, endurance capacity as evaluated by the PWC 170 and by the anaerobic threshold, increased more than the V02max. It is concluded that the physiological profile of adolescent cyclists is basically similar to the pattern observed in adult cyclists, and that endurance capacity is the most important physiological parameter in competitive cyclists. Verf.-Referat