The predictive effect of well trained elite men road cyclists' anthropometry values and strength endurance on climb time trial performance

Background: Cycling performance is primarily determined by endurance, with both lower and upper extremity muscle strength having a decisive impact on race performance. No studies have examined the relationship between strength values and field performance, especially in elite level male road cyclists. The aim of this study was to explore and the relationship between anthropometric values, strength endurance and climb time trial (TT) performance in elite male road cyclists. Methods: A total of 36 male road cyclists volunteered to participate (age: 21 f 2 year, height: 175 f 3 cm, weight: 70 f 4 kg; body fat ratio: 8 f 2%). The athletes underwent five visits: for demographic data collection, height and body weight measurements, body composition analysis, strength assessment (plank, push-up, pull-up, squat, barbell curl) and a TT test. Results: The results of multiple linear regression analysis revealed a statistically significant prediction formula, showing that plank duration and push-up repetitions could predict hill TT performance time (r = 0.66 and r(2) = 0.44 (t (2, 33) = 13.099, p <0.001) and average cycling speed at (r = 0.69 and r(2) = 0.48 levels (t (2, 33) = 9.149, p <0.001). However, no significant prediction formula was found for the anthropometric parameters (body weight, body fat ratio, muscle mass, bone mineral content, total body water, muscle mass ratio). Anthropometric values were not predictive of hill TT duration (t (2, 33) = 2.132, p = 0.070) and average speed (t (2, 33) = 1.519, p = 0.297). Conclusions: In conclusion, the duration of plank and push-up endurance movements are significantly related to hill time trial performance and these exercises serve as predictors for cycling performance.