Abstract Summary
The aim of this study was to quantify the test-retest reliability of crank-level variables during maximal cycling. Fourteen track sprint cyclists performed 3 x 4 s seated sprints at 135rpm on an isokinetic ergometer, repeating the session 7.6 ± 2.5 days later. Crank-level variables demonstrated excellent between-session reliability (ICC(3,k) > 0.923). Effective crank force exhibited excellent reliability (CMC ≥ 0.995), but ineffective crank force reliability was lower (CMC ≥ 0.988), associated with large intra-participant variability in ineffective crank force between crank angles of 140 ⁰ and 210 ⁰ within- and between-sessions. We speculate that cyclists try to regulate effective crank force to produce a stable performance outcome, in contrast to ineffective force which does not affect the task outcome. This information can be used when evaluating effectiveness of longitudinal interventions on maximal cycling biomechanics to understand if a meaningful change in performance has occurred.
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