Scientists' research finds the perfect pedaling rhythm for the cycling brain

Therefore, the best pedaling rhythm has become the most frequently studied and discussed technical issue for both daily cyclists and those who are passionate about triathlons. Since learning the correct pedaling technique is so important, what is the best pedaling rhythm for optimal efficiency and speed? Below we will use some research reports to explain.

What is the perfect pedaling rhythm for the cycling brain? Swiss scientists have found through their research that this rhythm is the perfect rhythm to use

Observe the rhythm of freedom

In a study conducted by Swiss scientists, researchers set two observation goals to try to answer the question of "free rhythm".

Objective 1. To observe the way a bicycle rider chooses his or her cadence under various conditions, that is, the way each person pedals at the speed that feels right to them, in the most relaxed and comfortable state.

Objective 2. To compare this comfortable choice of cadence with the optimal cadence, mainly by studying the number of pedaling revolutions that produce the lowest Blood Lactic Acid concentration at a constant power output.

The researchers set two targets to focus their observations on!

Why did these researchers look at blood lactate concentration and use it to calculate the optimal cadence? Because the change in blood lactate concentration during exercise depends mainly on the intensity and duration of the exercise; and is influenced by factors such as exercise mode, age, and muscle glycogen stores. So, if lactate production is reduced muscle fatigue is reduced, which means you can pedal longer and for longer distances at a fixed power output and pedal cadence; which is what all cyclists need to do most when they are in a time trial. In addition, the researchers also wanted to use the study to find out how the bicycle road and body position changed; whether the change in free-choice cadence was related to the optimal cadence.

For this reason, the researchers set up two different conditions: normal riding on the flat and uphill riding in an upright position, and analyzed the data on free rhythm, optimal rhythm, blood lactate, and maximum power; the researchers specifically asked seven experienced cyclists to present the actual data under these two conditions. The study focused specifically on observing cyclists; whether they were able to choose the optimal pedaling rhythm through instinct regardless of the road conditions they were riding on, and also whether the comfortable rhythm and optimal rhythm of pedaling were lower when riding a bicycle uphill.

This is a good choice

One of the findings of this study is that almost all cyclists chose a pedaling style that was very close to the optimal cadence via the comfortable cadence, regardless of whether they were riding on the flat or on a slope. The average figures for the whole group were 82.1rpm for flat riding and 89.3rpm for optimal cadence, and 81.5rpm for uphill riding and 87.7rpm for optimal cadence, with the interesting finding that riding in an upright position helped generate about 2% more power in the face of uphill cadence.

Riding in an upright position helps to generate about 2% of the power in a comfortable cadence facing uphill surfaces.

The brain controls the optimal cadence

Many cyclists and even seasoned cyclists, may be curious about their pedaling technique. Do they always feel like they are pedaling a little slow or too fast? But through this study, you will be able to understand that using a lower tempo and upright riding style on uphill roads will be more helpful in improving pedaling speed and power. As long as you are a seasoned cyclist and not a beginner pedaling in a big gear way, then a comfortable cadence is perfect for you. Interestingly, this study also correlates with a study on running distance, so the researchers are more certain that our brains can produce the best comfortable rhythm and movement, whether it is cycling pedaling speed or running pace amplitude, because of this you can use the least energy expenditure to maintain a fixed speed.