CORE STRENGTH TRAINING AND CYCLING:

The Neuromuscular Research Laboratory (NMRL) located within the University of Pittsburg Center for Sports Medicine is currently doing research on a number of cycling related topics. One in particular is testing the effects of a core strengthening program on cycling mechanics and pedaling efficiency in competitive cylists.

Thirty competitive cyclists will be randomized to either an intervention (core training) or control group and undergo 8 weeks of training. Testing will consist of riding on a treadmill at a speed of 16 mph with the incline increasing 1% every three minutes until exhaustion as indicated by the subject. Outcome measures will include joint kinematics and pedaling efficiency and will be recorded during the last thirty seconds of each three minute phase as well as strength testing of the torso. The cycling mechanics and pedaling efficiency tests and strength tests will take place at time 0-weeks and 8-weeks.

The study's hypothesis is that cyclists who integrate the core strengthening program will improve their cycling mechanics, be more resistant to core fatigue, and improve pedaling efficiency as compared to the control group.

From what I've seen, I think the outcome will be positive. I am curious to see what "core exercises" will be performed. Riding my bike on a treadmill? I think I'll stick to the road :)