Sprint Cycling

Abstract: The time between races varies in the track cycling competition known as the Match Sprint but can be as little as 10–15 min. Both physiological and motivational factors could affect performance recovery. This study investigated how the between-sprint recovery activity, and an alteration in the duration of the second sprint, affected performance. Twenty-four strength-trained men (age: 26 ± 5 years; height: 180.3 ± 6.1 cm; body mass: 82.3 ± 6.9 kg) participated. During each of the four experimental trials, two sprints were performed 12 min apart. The first was always 18 s and the second was either 9 s or 18 s. Between sprints, passive rest or a mixture of active and passive recovery was undertaken. Peak power output (PPO), as well as mean power output over 9 s (MPO9) and 18 s (MPO18), was recorded. Lactate concentration, ratings of sprint preparation and performance, as well as perceptions of recovery, were also measured. Post-trial and post-study questionnaires explored factors that may have influenced performance. A sprint number × recovery method interaction, F(1, 23) = 28.791, p < .001, ηp2 = .556, was found for PPO, with a significantly lower PPO in sprint 2 following passive recovery. Sprint number × second sprint duration interactions were found for PPO, F(1, 23) = 9.867, p = .005, ηp2 = .300, and MPO9, F(1, 23) = 8.922, p = .007, ηp2 = .279. A significant time × condition interaction was also found for lactate concentration, F(6.082, 97.320) = 2.982, p = .010, ηp2 = .157, although post hoc tests were unable to identify the cause of any of these effects. Typically, the participants were satisfied with their sprint performances and expressed positive views about the recovery activity undertaken. The main finding was, therefore, that PPO was lower following passive recovery, but the effects on MPO were not apparent.