Determination of the optimal crank arm length to maximize peak power production in an upright cycling position

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to determine: (1) the crank arm length that would maximize peak power production in an upright cycling position; (2) the joint angles corresponding to this crank arm length; (3) which joint angles (minimum, maximum, range of motion of the hip, knee and ankle) would be the best predictor(s) of the crank arm length; and (4) develop regression equations to predict the optimal crank arm length for individuals of different leg lengths. The data from Too and Landwer (2000) was examined, in conjunction with the data collected in this study, and combined for use in regression analysis. With stepwise multiple regression, the following equation was determined to best predict crank arm lengths that would maximize peak power production in an upright cycling position for individuals of different leg lengths: CAL [mm] = (238 [mm] – 0.25 * (Tot Leg) [mm] + 0.3 * (Low Leg) [mm]) ± 22 [mm] As with any prediction equation, caution must be taken when interpreting and extrapolating the results.