The Effect of Body Position/Configuration and Orientation on Power Output

Abstract

Kinesiologists, unlike engineers, have always examined cycling performance based on a human factors perspective. But. these investigations have always been based on the constraints imposed by the structure of a conventional bicycle. These investigations have included the effects on cycling performance with changes in seat height, crank arm length, pedaling frequencies, workloads, total .workoutput, etc. Therefore, a gap exist between research in the various disciplines. To maximize/optimize cycling performance in human powered vehicles requires a bridging of this gap through interdisciplinary research. The purpose of these investigations were to determine the effect of systematic changes in: (1) body position/configuration (seat tube angle/hip angles); and (2) body orientation (trunk angle with respect to the ground) on cycling performance as defined by power output.