Power Profile during Cycling in World Triathlon Series and Olympic Games.

This study aimed to analyze the power profile (PP) during the cycling segment of international-level triathletes in the World Triathlon Series (WTS) and Olympics and to evaluate the influence of circuit type, race distance (Sprint or Olympic distance) and race dynamics on the development of the cycling leg and the final race position. Four male triathletes participated in the study. Twenty races were analyzed using geolocation technology and power-meter data to analyze PP, race dynamics, and course characteristics. Before the races, incremental tests of volitional exhaustion with gas analysis were performed to determine power intensity zones. Nonparametric Mann-Whitney U tests and correlation analyses were conducted to identify differences and relationships between various variables. A correlation between the time spent above maximal aerobic power (MAP) and dangerous curves per kilometer (r = 0.46; p < 0.05) and bike split result (BSR) (r = -0.50; p < 0.05) was observed. Also, moderate correlation was found between BSR and the final race position (r = 0.46; p < 0.01). No differences were found between sprint and Olympic distance races in any variable. Power output variability, influenced by technical circuit segments, remains the main characteristic in international short-distance races. The results of the present study suggest that the triathletes who are better adapted to intermittent high intensity efforts perform better cycling legs at international high-level races.

Training Characteristics, Performance, and Body Composition of Three U23 Elite Female Triathletes throughout a Season.

(1) Background: There is a lack of data on the long-term training characteristics and performance markers of elite young female endurance athletes. The aim of this study was to present the training load (ECOs), as well as the evolution of the anthropometric values and performance of three elite U23 female triathletes over a season. (2) Methods: General training data and performance data relating to the swimming, cycling, and running legs of the 2021 season were described. The training intensity distribution (TID) was presented using the triphasic model, while the training load was based on the ECO model. An anthropometric analysis was also conducted in accordance with the ISAK standards. (3) Results: Triathletes increased their VO2max in cycling (6.9-10%) and running (7.1-9.1%), as well as their power and speed associated with the VO2max (7.7-8.6% in cycling and 5.1-5.3% in running) and their swimming speed associated with the lactate thresholds (2.6-4.0% in LT2 and 1.2-2.5% in LT1). The triathletes completed more than 10 h of weekly average training time, with peak weeks exceeding 15 h. The average TID of the three triathletes was 82% in phase 1, 6% in phase 2, and 12% in phase 3. A decrease in the sum of skinfolds and fat mass percentage was observed during the season in the three triathletes, although the last measurement revealed a stagnation or slight rise in these parameters. (4) Conclusions: The triathletes performed a combination of two training periodization models (traditional and block periodization) with a polarized TID in most of the weeks of the season. Improvements in performance and physiological parameters were observed after the general preparatory period as well as a positive body composition evolution throughout the season, except at the end, where the last measurement revealed stagnation or a slight decline. This study can be useful as a general guide for endurance coaches to organize a training season with female U23 triathletes.

Does Pool Performance of Elite Triathletes Predict Open-Water Performance?

The capacity of laboratory tests to predict competition performance has been broadly researched across several endurance sports. The aim of the present study was to analyse how pool swimming performance can predict the result of the swimming segment in triathlon competitions and compare predictability differences based on competition level and distance. Eighteen male triathletes participated in the study. Three were ranked world-class, ten elite/international level, and five highly trained/national level. A total of sixty-one graded multi-stage swimming tests were conducted. Blood lactate was measured to calculate the following hypothetical predictor variables: speed at lactate threshold 1 (LT1), speed at lactate threshold 2 (LT2), and speed in the last repetition of the test (SL200). The following data were collected for a total of 75 races: time in the swimming leg (TSL); position after the swimming leg (PSL); time difference with the first triathlete after the swimming leg (DFT); and final race position. The race levels were divided according to participant levels as follows: world series (WS) (n = 22); World Cup (WC) (n = 22); Continental Cup (CC) (n = 19); national championship (N) (n = 5); and local race (L) (n = 5). Based on distance, they were divided into Olympic distance (OD) (n = 37) and sprint distance (SD) (n = 38). A moderate to strong positive association was found between LT1, LT2, SL200 and PSL and TSl at all race levels except for the SD CC, SD WC, and OD CC races, where no or weak-to-moderate correlations were found. The present study demonstrated that performance measured in a graded multi-stage pool lactate test can predict performance in a triathlon swimming segment. This finding is highly useful for coaches as it can help them to obtain a reliable measure of the triathlete's specific capabilities in the swimming leg.

Training characteristics and performance of two male elite short-distance triathletes: From junior to "world-class".

OBJECTIVE: The sports-science literature lacks data on training and performance characteristics of international elite athletes over multiple seasons. The present case study provided general training characteristics and performance data of two male short-distance triathletes in the Junior, U23, and international Elite categories. METHODS: General training and performance data of two male elite triathletes were described in swimming, cycling, and running segments from the 2015 to 2022 season. The training load was presented using the ECO model while the training intensity distribution (TID) was a triphasic model. RESULTS: Both triathletes increased their performance throughout the seasons. Triathlete A increased his VO2max in cycling by 20.6%, in running by 16.7%. His power at VO2max and his speed at VO2max by 18.9% and 11.0%, respectively. Triathlete B improved his VO2max by 17.8% in cycling, by 16.1% in running and his power at VO2max by 24%, and his speed at VO2max by 14.3%. The triathletes trained on average 14-17 h a week. The TID model was polarized. CONCLUSIONS: To achieve the top international level, it is necessary to consider the following measures: training load progression; improvements in physiological variables; and participation in international events starting from youth categories.

Road to Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games: Training Characteristics of a World Class Male Triathlete.

There is a growing interest in the scientific literature for reporting top-class endurance athletes training programs. This case study reports on the training program of a world-class male triathlete preparing to compete in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. A macrocycle of 43 weeks is presented. The triathlete performed 14.74 ± 3.01 h of weekly endurance training volume. Training intensity distribution (TID) was 81.93% ± 6.74%/7.16% ± 2.03%/10.91% ± 6.90% for zones 1 (low intensity, VT2) respectively. Pyramidal TID model is observed during the initial stages of the periodization and Polarized TID model is observed at the end of the macrocycle. The triathlete's peak ⩒O2 was increased by 20% on cycling and by 14% on running. Peak power was increased by 3.13% on cycling test and peak speed by 9.71% on running test. Finally, the triathlete placed 12th in Olympic distance and 10th in Mixed Relay in Tokyo 2020 Olympic games.

Using Musical Feedback Increases Stride Frequency in Recreational Runners.

The number of participants in popular races has increased in recent years, with most of them being amateurs. In addition, it has been observed that there is a high percentage of injuries among them, and some of these injuries may be related to a low stride frequency. The aim of this research was to check if a continuous running training program with a musical base improves the stride frequency of popular runners. For this purpose, the effect of a 6 week continuous running training program with the help of a musical track with a constant rhythm that was 10% higher than the preferred stride frequency of the subjects was analyzed and compared to a control group that performed the continuous running training without sound stimuli. Significant increases were found in the evolution of stride frequency in the experimental group between the pre- and post-test (p = 0.002). No significant changes were observed in the stride frequency of the control group. These results show that training with music feedback helps to improve stride frequency in recreational runners. Future research should study the evolution of the improvement obtained in time as it is unknown if the increase in stride rate has been integrated in the runner's technique, making the improvement obtained permanent. Future research is needed to confirm these results by enlarging the sample and carrying out an exhaustive biomechanical study.

Analysis of Anthropometric and Body Composition Profile in Male and Female Traditional Rowers.

The anthropometric profile has a fundamental role in rowing performance and young talent detection. The objective of this study was to analyze the anthropometric profile, body composition, and somatotype in traditional rowers, and to analyze which variables can be used as predictors of rowing performance. Twenty-four rowers competing at national level participated in this study, thirteen men and eleven women. Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed in the height of male rowers (large effect size, d = 1.8) and in body mass (very large effect size, d = 2.4). Also, muscle mass reached a higher percentage in male rowers (d = 3.7), whereas the sum of seven skinfolds (d = 2.0) and body fat percentage (d = 2.0) reached higher values in female rowers, all their difference being significant (p < 0.001) with very large effect size. The somatotype of male rowers was ecto-mesomorph (1.8-4.5-3.0), and the somatotype of female rowers was in the balanced mesomorph (2.8-3.8-2.6). A very strong correlation between height (r = 0.75; p = 0.002) and rowing performance was found in male rowers. Body mass (r = 0.70; p = 0.009) and muscle mass (r = 0.83; p = 0.001) showed also very strong correlation in female rowers. Finally, height was the best predictor of performance for male rowers (R2 = 0.56, p < 0.003) and muscle mass for female rowers (R2 = 0.68, p < 0.002). The anthropometric profile of male and female traditional rowers showed differences to be considered in training programs and talent selection.

Comparisons of summer break effect on anthropometric profile, body composition and somatotype between adolescent swimmers and less active adolescents / Comparación del efecto de las vacaciones de verano en el perfil antropométrico, la composición corporal y el somatotipo entre nadadores adolescentes y adolescentes menos activos

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare changes in anthropometric profile, body composition, and somatotype of adolescent swimmers and less active adolescents. METHOD: We selected 16 swimmers and 8 less active adolescents. The swimmers were divided based on the amount of swimming activity performed per week. A longitudinal study with repeated measures was carried out. The anthropometric profile, body composition, and somatotype were assessed before and after the summer break from swimming activity. RESULTS: Both groups of swimmers showed more changes in anthropometric profile, body composition, and somatotype than the less active adolescents. The very active swimmers showed a higher increase in the sum of the two central skinfolds than peripheral ones (p = 0.018). Both groups of swimmers had a great increase of the percent change in the sum of the two central skinfolds (medium active swimmers: p = 0.006, medium effect size = 0.72; very active swimmers: p = 0.001, medium effect size = 0.64). CONCLUSIONS: The fat component seems to be more variable than the muscular and bone component during 55 - 65 days of summer break from swimming activity. The two groups of swimmers showed a preferential accumulation of central fat after the summer break compared to the less active adolescents. The suprailiac and abdominal skinfolds could be used as early predictive measurements to assess changes in body fat

OBJETIVO: El objetivo del estudio fue comparar los cambios en el perfil antropométrico, la composición corporal y el somatotipo entre nadadores adolescentes y adolescentes sedentarios. MÉTODO: Se llevó a cabo un estudio longitudinal con medidas repetidas. Se analizó el perfil antropométrico, la composición corporal y el somatotipo antes y después del verano. Se seleccionaron 24 adolescentes: 16 nadadores y 8 sedentarios. Los nadadores se dividieron en dos grupos según los minutos de entrenamiento realizado por semana: actividad intensa = 960 minutos, actividad media = 480 minutos. RESULTADOS: Los nadadores mostraron mayores cambios en el perfil antropométrico, la composición corporal y el somatotipo respecto a los adolescentes sedentarios tras el verano. Ambos grupos de nadadores tuvieron un aumento en la suma de los dos pliegues centrales (nadadores de actividad media: p = 0.006, tamaño de efecto medio = 0.72; nadadores de actividad intensa: p = 0.001, tamaño de efecto medio = 0.64). Los nadadores de actividad intensa mostraron un aumento en la suma de los dos pliegues centrales frente a los periféricos (p = 0.018). CONCLUSIONES: En nadadores adolescentes, la grasa corporal parece ser más variable frente al componente muscular y óseo después del verano. Ambos grupos de nadadores mostraron una acumulación preferencial de grasa central después del verano frente a los adolescentes sedentarios. Los pliegues centrales podrían usarse como medidas predictivas tempranas para evaluar los cambios en la grasa corporal

Perfil antropométrico de jóvenes triatletas y su asociación con variables de rendimiento / Anthropometric profile of young triathletes and their association with variables of performance

La diferente naturaleza de cada disciplina en triatlón dificulta el consenso en relación a los factores antropométricos óptimos para un alto rendimiento global, especialmente en jóvenes. Por eso, el objetivo fue analizar la correlación de los factores cineantropométricos con el rendimiento observado en los diferentes test. Triatletas infantiles y cadetes (44 masculinos y 20 femeninos) fueron sometidos a una medición antropométrica completa, así como a la evaluación del rendimiento (100 my 400 m en natación, potencia crítica en ciclismo y 1.000 m en carrera). Las variables fueron sometidas a una prueba de normalidad (Shapiro-Wilk) y un análisis correlacional (coeficiente de correlación de Spearman). Los resultados muestran que tanto en el test de 100 m como en el de 400 m, las medidas corporales básicas, los diámetros Biacromial y Biileocrestal, así como los perímetros del brazo, muslo y tórax (perímetros sólo en chicas) tienen las correlaciones más altas con el rendimiento. En el test de ciclismo se observa una correlación moderadamente significativa y negativa (p = -0,556) entre el pliegue de la pierna y la potencia crítica relativa sólo en chicas. Finalmente, el test de carrera a pie correlacionó negativamente con el porcentaje de masa grasa en ambos sexos (Chicos: p = -0,323; chicas: p = -0,646). Estos resultados indican que se deberían tener en cuenta, especialmente, la estatura y la envergadura en el rendimiento en natación, así como el tejido graso en el rendimiento de carrera, especialmente en chicas, por aquellos profesionales que intervienen en el proceso de desarrollo y selección de talento en jóvenes triatletas

The different nature of each discipline in triathlon makes consensus difficult for optimal anthropometric factors for a high global performance, especially in young people. The aim was to analyse the correlation of the cineanthropometric factors with the performance observed in the different test. Young triathletes (44 male and 20 female) were subjected to a full anthropo-metric measurement as well as to the performance assessment (100 m and 400 m in swimming, cycling critical power and 1000 m run). Variables were subject to a normal test (Shapiro-Wilk) and correlational analysis (coefficient of Spearman). The results show that both in the 100 m and 400 m test, basic body measures, Biacromial and Biiliocrestal diameters, as well as arm perimeters, thigh and chest (perimeters only in girls) have the highest correlations with performance. The cycling test shows a moderately significant and negative correlation (p = .556) between the leg fold and the relative critical power only in girls. Finally, run correlated negative to the percentage of fat mass in both sexes (boys: p = -.323; girls: p = -.646). Results indicate that arm span and height should be taken into account in swimming performance, as well as the fat tissue in career performance, especially in girls by professionals involved in the development process and selection of talent in young triathletes

Polarized and Pyramidal Training Intensity Distribution: Relationship with a Half-Ironman Distance Triathlon Competition.

The purpose of the present study was to relate the training intensity distribution with performance in a Half-Ironman distance triathlon competition. A total of 18 recreational-level triathletes were divided into two training groups according to their training intensity distribution: Polarized (POL) and Pyramidal (PYR). Prior to the specific training period of the study, subjects performed a ramp-protocol test, running and cycling to determine ventilatory thresholds (VT) through gas-exchange analysis. For swimming, subjects performed an 800-metre test to establish their training zones. Training was quantified based on the cumulative time spent in 3 intensity zones: zone 1 (low intensity, VT2). POL competed 84.5%/4.2%/11.3% and PYR 77.9%/18.8%/3.3% of total training time for zones 1,2 and 3 respectively. The goal of the training period was a half Ironman distance triathlon. Training time in zone 2 inversely correlated with swimming and cycling race time in POL and with running and total race time in PYR. Power at VT2 on bike and speed at VT2 as well as maximum aerobic power and speed in the physiological post test inversely correlated with bike and run segment respectively and with total race time. These results suggest that training time in zone 2 was related with better performance on a Half-Ironman race in amateur triathletes. Future experimental research is needed to clarify the importance of training intensity distribution regarding performance.

Changes in Triathletes' Performance and Body Composition During a Specific Training Period for a Half-Ironman Race.

The number of recreational athletes completing a Half-Ironman triathlon has increased exponentially in recent years. However, there is a lack of research on how to train for this kind of an event. The purpose of this study was thus to analyse triathletes' changes in performance and body composition following a triathlon-specific training period. Fourteen male amateur triathletes completed a 7-week period of general training and a 13-week period of specific training for a Half-Ironman triathlon. Anthropometric measures and performance tests were carried out to assess the effects of the specific training program. Results showed that the pre-test value of VO2max for cycling was inversely correlated not only with the percentage of change in cycling performance, but also with the percentage change in several variables of running performance. In swimming, inverse correlations were observed between the time of the first 800 m test and the time percentage change for this test, but not with the percentage change in the performance of other segments of the race. Moreover, the somatotype component of endomorphy and the fat mass percentage of the first anthropometry were highly correlated with the percentage change in VO2max in the run segment. These results highlight the importance of providing individualised training, considering that the same training program had a different impact on recreational triathletes belonging to the same group. Amateur athletes with higher initial performance levels probably need a greater amount of training to achieve improved adaptation.

Efecto de la distribución de intensidad del entrenamiento sobre la composición corporal en triatletas amateur / Effect of training intensity distribution on body composition in amateur triathletes / Efeitos da distribuição da intensidade do treinamento sobre a composição corporal em triatletas amadores

Objetivo: Comparar cómo afectan dos modelos de distribución de la intensidad del entrenamiento diferentes (modelo polarizado y modelo piramidal) sobre la composición corporal de triatletas amateur de larga distancia. Método: Después de un periodo de entrenamiento de base de seis semanas, 14 triatletas varones (edad=29.5±6.4 años; peso=71.2±4.0 kg; altura=173.6±4.4 cm; VO2máx=56.92±5.78 ml/kg/min) fueron aleatoriamente divididos en dos grupos: polarizado y piramidal. Cada grupo siguió un modelo de distribución de la intensidad del entrenamiento diferente. La duración del periodo de entrenamiento específico fue de 11 semanas, realizándose mediciones antropométricas pre y post a este periodo para comparar los efectos de los modelos de distribución de la intensidad del entrenamiento sobre la composición corporal. Resultados: El grupo polarizado redujo de manera estadísticamente significativa su peso total (p=0.046) y su sumatorio de pliegues cutáneos (p=0.046). El grupo piramidal aumentó de manera significativa el perímetro corregido de la pierna (p=0.017). En el grupo polarizado se incrementó el componente del somatotipo de ectomorfia de manera significativa (p=0.046) y en el piramidal el de mesomorfia (p=0.043). Conclusiones: La distribución polarizada tuvo un mayor efecto sobre la pérdida de peso y masa grasa que la distribución piramidal

Objective: To compare how affect two models of different training intensity distribution (polarized model and pyramidal model) on body composition in amateur long-distance triathletes. Method: After a general training period of six week, 14 male triathletes (age=29.5±6.4 years; weight=71.2±4.0 kg; height=173.6±4.4 cm VO2max=56.92±5.78 ml/kg/min) were randomly divided into two groups: polarized and pyramidal. Each group followed a different training intensity distribution model. The duration of the specific training period was 11 weeks. Anthropometric measurements were taken before and after this period to compare the effects of the two models of training intensity distribution on body composition. Results: Significant reduces were observed in polarized group in the total weight (p=0.046) and summatory of the 8 skinfolds (p=0.046). Pyramidal group significantly increased the corrected perimeter of the leg (p=0.017). In polarized group the somatotype component of ectomorphy was significantly increased (p=0.046) and the mesomorphy component was significantly increased in pyramidal (p=0.043). Conclusions: Polarized distribution had a greater effect on weight loss and fat mass than pyramidal distribution

Objetivo: Comparar a influência dos modelos de distribuição de diferentes intensidade de treinamentos (modelo polarizado e modelo piramidal) sobre a composição corporal de triatletas amadores de longa distância. Métodos: Depois de um período de treinamento básico de seis semanas, 14 triatletas do sexo masculino (idade = 29.5±6.4 anos; peso = 71.2±4.0 kg; altura = 173.6±4.4 cm; VO2máx = 56.92±5.78 ml/kg/min) foram aleatoriamente divididos em dois grupos: polarizado e piramidal. Cada grupo seguiu um modelo diferente de distribuição da intensidade de treinamento. A duração do período de treinamento específico foi de 11 semanas, realizando medidas antropométricas pré e pós intervenção para comparar os efeitos dos modelos de distribuição da intensidade do treinamento sobre a composição corporal. Resultados: O grupo polarizado reduziu de maneira estatisticamente significativa o peso total (p=0.046) e o somatório de dobras cutâneas (p=0.046). O grupo piramidal aumentou de maneira significativa o perímetro corrigido da perna (p=0.017). No grupo polarizado houve incremento significativo do componente do somatório da ectomorfia (p=0.046) e no piramidal o da mesomorfia (p=0.043). Conclusão: A distribuição polarizada teve maior efeito sobre a perda de peso e massa gorda do que a distribuição piramidal