The Relationship Between Freely Chosen Cadence and Optimal Cadence in Cycling

Purpose: The main aim of this study was to compare the freely chosen cadence (FCC) and the cadence at which the blood lactate concentration at constant power output is minimized (optimal cadence [C-opt]). The second aim was to examine the effect of a concomitant change of road incline and body position on FCC, the maximal external power output (P-max), and the corresponding C-opt. Methods: FCC, C-opt, and P-max were analyzed under 2 conditions: cycling on level ground in a dropped position (LG(DP)) and cycling uphill in an upright position (UHUP). Seven experienced cyclists participated in this study. They cycled on a treadmill to test the 2 main hypotheses: Experienced cyclists would choose an adequate cadence close to C-opt independent of the cycling condition, and FCC and C-opt would be lower and P-max for UHUP than with LG(DP). Results: Most but not all experienced cyclists chose an adequate cadence close to C-opt. Independent of the cycling condition, FCC and C-opt were not statistically different. FCC (82.1 +/- 11.1 and 89.3 +/- 10.6 rpm, respectively) and C-opt (81.5 +/- 9.8 and 87.7 +/- 10.9 rpm, respectively) were significantly lower and P-max was significantly higher (2.0 +/- 2.1%) for UHUP than for LG(DP). Conclusion: Most experienced cyclists choose a cadence near C-opt to minimize peripheral fatigue at a given power output independent of the cycling condition. Furthermore, it is advantageous to use a lower cadence and a more upright body position during uphill cycling.