Improvement of cyclists’ pedaling technique by studying their individual differences

Abstract

The paper dwells upon the study of pedaling types in highly skilled track cyclists. The study involved 18 skilled cyclists. Kinematic, dynamic and integral indices of pedaling technique were examined. The studies revealed three types of pedaling according to the character of effort distribution. The first type is characterized by cyclist using the increased values of efforts of the vertical components of both legs at the distance. The second type includes pedaling technique variants that are based upon different degree of exceeding the values of mean group model characteristics of motion structure at the distance in terms of the efforts of all zones of right or left foot pedaling. The third type of motion structure is distinguished by high values of efforts of right foot pushing through and pushing down and left foot following through and pulling up, or vice versa – left foot pushing through and pushing down and right foot following through and pulling up. Pedaling technique is recommended to improve depending on its type. Moreover, one should pay attention at the development of the “leading” zones of pedaling cycle rather than the “lagging” ones.