TRAINING INTENSITY PLANNING FOR BEGINNER CYCLISTS

Abstract

Aim. This study aimed to develop a methodology for regulating cycling training intensity by examining the relationship between speed, working heart rate (HR), age, and physical working capacity (PWC) in young cyclists. Materials and methods. The study involved 114 cyclists aged 10–15 years, divided into age- and sex-matched groups (8–14 subjects per group). Physical working capacity was assessed via PWC170 (power output at 170 bpm). Participants performed eight 4-minute cycling trials at speeds ranging from 14 to 35 km/h (14, 17, 20, 23, 26, 29, 32, and 35 km/h), with 5-minute rest intervals. Testing was conducted on a flat asphalt highway after a standardized warm-up, with HR monitored using Polar sensors. Results. Steady-state HR decreased significantly with age, suggesting improved cardiovascular function in older adolescents. Female cyclists exhibited a more pronounced HR response to exercise. A linear relationship between cycling speed and HR was observed up to 190–200 bpm in cyclists aged 10–15 years. Athletes with higher PWC demonstrated superior chronotropic function, maintaining lower HR at equivalent intensities compared to less-trained peers. Conclusion. The study established a linear speed-HR relationship in young cyclists and confirmed age-related reductions in steady-state HR. Multiple regression models were developed to predict working HR at given speeds and vice versa, accounting for age, sex, and PWC.