Optimal load for a torque-velocity relationship test during cycling

Lower limbs muscle force capabilities can be determined during all-out sprints, but the method is accurate only if the testing protocol provides a good fit of the data in the torque-velocity (T-V) and power-velocity (P-V) relationship curves. This study compared the goodness of fit from single all-out sprints performed against the traditional (TRAD) load [7.5% of the body mass (BM)] vs an individualized optimal (OPT) load calculated based on the force production capacity. OPT load provided an overall better T-V and P-V relationship goodness of fit than TRAD, suggesting that single all-out sprints against an OPT load provides a more accurate representation of the muscle capabilities. Thus, sprints load assignment should consider muscle force production capacities rather than BM.