Cycling Field Test Proves to be a Valid Measure of Fitness

Researchers from Aspen and Colorado Springs, Colorado found that a power-monitored field test can be used to assess one's fitness level on the bike.

The purpose of this study was to a) use the Power Tap power meter to assess the participant's fitness level using only a field test, b) develop and implement a training program based on the field test's results, and c) re-administer the Power Tap monitored field test to evaluate the training program efficacy. Twenty women and thirty-six men (mean age of 46) participated in an 8-week indoor cycling class which met twice a week for 1 hour training sessions. Changes in maximal steady-state power (MSSP), power at lactate threshold (PTlac), maximal power (Pmax), and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) were measured on all of the participants. After training, MSSP increased 9.2%, PTlac increased 12.9%, Pmax increased 6.7% and VO2max increased 6.5%. The MSSP and PTlac were highly correlated as was the MSSP and VO2max.

The results of this research indicate that a) the field test is a valid measure of fitness and changes in fitness, b) it provided data for training ranges, and c) a bi-weekly power-based training program can elicit significant changes in fitness. The findings of this research also back the idea that one does not have to posses a metabolic cart to adequately administer and monitor a training program.

Klika R, Alderdice M, Kvale J, Kearney J. (2007). Efficacy of cycling training based on a power filed test. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 21(1): 265-269.