The effects of Exercise Modality: Cycling and Running on Stroke Volume in Well-Trained Male Cyclists

Abstract

Background: It was attempted to test whether the Stroke Volume (SV) response rises during incremental exercise to the maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) and whether SV response differs between cycling and running in well-trained male cyclists. It was examined VO2max, SV response and Q in both cycling and running at incremental intensities to VO2max.

Methods: Eight well-trained cyclists volunteered for the investigation. VO2max was performed on a cycle ergometer and on a treadmill. SV was estimated by Single Breath, Acetylene Method (SB) at corresponding workloads of 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% of VO2max respectively for both exercise modes. Statistical analysis was performed SPSS (18) for obtaining descriptive values (mean ± SD), normal distribution and paired t-test respectively. The probability level < 0.05 was set up for this study.

Results: VO2max 66 ± 6ml·kg·min-1 on cycle ergometer; 69 ± 4 ml·kg-1·min-1 on treadmill. VO2max did not differ significantly between cycling and running (p > 0.05). Also, no difference was found in SV between cycling and running. SV plateaued from 60% to VO2max for both exercise modes. However, significant difference was found in Cardiac Output (Q) at 40% (p = .014) and at 60% (.002) of VO2max between cycling and running.

Conclusion: Performing running modality did not alter on VO2max and SV in well-trained cyclists. However, it may suggest that well-trained cyclists may not find similar similitude to running because of difference in Q.