rove aerodynamic drag, but consideration must be given to the impact on joint angle and muscular output. In reality, during competition, most cyclists do not “freeze” in a single position. Rather, the cyclist adjusts to find the most comfortable and/or efficient position (“preferred” versus “optimal” positioning during cycling).11
Take home message
Under standardised conditions, untrained participants who assume the aero position while cycling gain no physiological advantage.
This study provides insight into an untrained physiological response to a standardised aerobar position in the laboratory setting where environmental conditions were closely controlled. It suggests that untrained cyclists cannot assume that their cardiorespiratory function will improve on adopting the aero position. It may be that a period of training and adaptation is necessary to optimise performance using aerobars, although this study was not designed to examine this. The results of this study may be useful in exercise prescription in untrained subjects to assist the best individual performance at an energy efficient cost.
In conclusion, we found evidence of limitation in ventilation in young men cycling in the unfamiliar aerobar position. Inexperience and cycling position is offered to account for the differences observed. Future studies investigating the changes that occur with adaptation and training aerobars would provide valuable information.
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