Physiological and Anthropometrical Predictors of 15-Kilometer Time Trial Cycling Performance Time

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between physiological and anthropometrical variables and 15-km time trial (TT) cycling performance time. Twenty-two competitive cyclists averaged 59.7 ml · kg–1 · min–1 for maximal oxygen consumption ([Vdot]O2max), 42.8 ml · kg–1 · min–1 for anaerobic threshold (AT), and 23.5 min for the 15 km TT race. The relationship between [Vdot]O2max and cycling performance time was r = – 0.68, (p < .01) while the correlation between AT and performance time was r = – 0.93, (p <.01). Applying stepwise multiple regression analysis, the two-variable model of the AT and the body circumference ratio, thigh+calf:arm+chest, was found to correlate highly with cycling performance time (r =0.966). It was concluded that the successful cyclists are characterized by the ability to consume large amounts of oxygen prior to ventilatory changes associated with the anaerobic threshold as well as a larger lower to upper body circumference ratio which may favorably decrease wind resistance while cycling.