Resistive force selection and force velocity inter-relationships during brief friction loaded high intensity cycle ergometer exercise

Exercise tests are designed to measure maximal power output (Dotan and Bar Or, 1983). We propose that the peak power output (PPO) is influenced by the experimental protocol used to measure it (Baker et al, 200 1) and that the external optimal load is closely matched to the capacity of the active muscle (Wilkie, 1960). We measured power values generated during brief high intensity cycle ergometry in which the loading protocols depended on total body mass (TBM) or fat free mass (FFM). Physical education students with varied sporting backgrounds (n=8) volunteered as subjects. Body density was calculated using hydrostatic weighing procedures (Behnke and Wilmore, 1974) with fat mass ascertained from body density values (Siri, 1956). Subjects were required to pedal maximally on a cycle ergometer (Monark 864) against random loads ranging from 70g.kg(-1)-105g.kg(-1) (TBM or FFM protocol) for a 6s period. Differences (p<0.05) in peak power output (PPO) were found between the TBM and FFM protocols (993 +/- 114W vs 1020 +/- 134W respectively). Differences were also recorded (p<0.05) between pedal velocity and resistive forces (134 &PLUSMN; 8 rpm vs 141 &PLUSMN; 7rpm; 6 &PLUSMN; lkg vs 5 &PLUSMN; lkg respectively). No differences (p&GT;0.05) were observed between time to PPO, or heart rate when TBM and FFM were compared. The findings of this study suggest that during optimisation procedures for FFM, greater peak power can be obtained consistently during high intensity cycle ergometry. Loading procedures that relate to the active muscle tissue utilised during this type of exercise may need to be explored in preference to protocols that include both lean and fat masses.