Biomechanical Aspects of Road Cycling

Abstract

In optimal aerodynamic position, during road cycling, 20° anterior pelvic tilt results in a 7.5 % increase of the length of the hamstrings (long head of m. biceps femoris and m. semimembranosus) and a 6 % decrease of the length of the m. rectus femoris. These muscles are most active during pedal strokes. The increase and decrease in length of these muscles in aero position may lead to respectively hamstrings passive insufficiency, and m. rectus femoris active insufficiency, as these muscles are now likely to shift away from their plateau region of optimal force ( = 100 %). Such imminent muscle insufficiencies are reflected in “thigh injuries” such as “quadriceps and hamstring strains”, as diagnosed in cyclists. Therefore, to restore optimal muscle force, Electro Vibro Stimulation (EVS) is strongly recommended.