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European Journal of Applied Physiology

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01-07-2018 | Original Article

Comparison of running and cycling economy in runners, cyclists, and triathletes

Authors: Wannes Swinnen, Shalaya Kipp, Rodger Kram

Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology | Issue 7/2018

Abstract

Purpose

Exercise economy is one of the main physiological factors determining performance in endurance sports. Running economy (RE) can be improved with running-specific training, while the improvement of cycling economy (CE) with cycling-specific training is controversial. We investigated whether exercise economy reflects sport-specific skills/adaptations or is determined by overall physiological factors.

Methods

We compared RE and CE in 10 runners, 9 cyclists and 9 triathletes for running at 12 km/h and cycling at 200 W. Gross rates of oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production were collected and used to calculate gross metabolic rate in watts for both running and cycling.

Results

Runners had better RE than cyclists (917 ± 107 W vs. 1111 ± 159 W) (p < 0.01). Triathletes had intermediate RE values (1004 ± 98 W) not different from runners or cyclists. CE was not different (p = 0.20) between the three groups (runners: 945 ± 60 W; cyclists: 982 ± 44 W; triathletes: 979 ± 54 W).

Conclusion

RE can be enhanced with running-specific training, but CE is independent of cycling-specific training.

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Title: Comparison of running and cycling economy in runners, cyclists, and triathletes
Authors: Wannes Swinnen
Shalaya Kipp
Rodger Kram
Publication date: 01-07-2018
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology / Issue 7/2018
Print ISSN: 1439-6319
Electronic ISSN: 1439-6327
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-018-3865-4

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Comparison of running and cycling economy in runners, cyclists, and triathletes

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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