Author(s): LAMBERTS, R., VAN VLEUTEN, A., DUMOULIN, T., VAN ERP, T., Institution: STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY, Country: SOUTH AFRICA, Abstract-ID: 281

INTRODUCTION:
Professional road cycling is widely recognized as one of the most demanding sports, particularly during multi-day events such as Grand Tours. In the past decade, female professional cycling has experienced rapid growth, resulting in the introduction of two new Grand Tours, the Tour de France Femmes and the Vuelta Femenina. Despite evident disparities in the training (1) and racing habits (2) of female and male professional cyclists, less is known about the physical demands to win a Grand Tour.
METHODS:
The power output of a female Grand Tour winner (Giro Rosa) and a male Grand Tour winner (Giro d’Italia) were analyzed. Mean maximal power outputs (MMP) during different stage types of the Grand Tour (e.g., time trials, flat, semi-mountainous, and mountain stages) were calculated. Additionally, relative power output (percentage of functional threshold power (FTP)) was computed for both cyclists, as well as, time spent in different power zones and changes in MMP’s with increasing levels of kJ burnt. A total of 64 power files were analyzed, while data was analyzed with independent t-tests and a one-way Analysis of Variance. Where needed, a Tukey post hoc tests was performed.
RESULTS:
Differences in stage characteristics and absolute mean maximal power output were observed during all stage types (p < 0.05). However, similarities in relative power output (percentage of FTP) were found across all stage types (0.8-4.5%). Differences in percentage FTP power output were found during the first 50% of flat stages (14.7-15.1%) and the last 25% of mountain stages (9.8%). Overall, both cyclists had exceptionally high 20 to 60 minutes MMP values, reflecting their good climbing and excellent time trail capacities. Decrements in MMP’s with increasing levels of kJ burnt were only observed from 30 kJ/kg in female cyclists and 45 kJ/kg in male cyclist.
CONCLUSION:
This is the first study to provide insight into the racing demands of female and male cyclist, to win a Grand Tour. While expected differences were found in overall and stage characteristics, as well as absolute power output, strong similarities were found when power was expressed as a percentage of FTP power. The higher percentage of FTP power during the first half of flat stages and the last 25% of the mountain stages can likely be best explained by differences in racing tactics and potentially the climbing capacity of the two cyclists. Besides needing to be a good climber and time trial rider (high 20 to 20 MMP values (3,4)), the very late decrement of MMP’s with increasing levels of kJ’s burnt,5 highlights the importance of endurance and fatigue resistance in professional cyclists.

References
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