Chou, C.-C., Pan, H.-C., & Lin, J.-C. (2006). The effects of different upper body positions on physiological response during maximal and submaximal cycling. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(5), Supplement abstract 2648.

The aim of this study was to compare physiological variables from different upper body positions, the upright position and the aero position, at maximal and submaximal intensities on a cycle ergometer. Males (N = 10) with no habitual training completed two exercise tests, a maximal test and 30 minute graded-submaximal exercise test in both positions on different days.

In the maximal test in the upright position, Ss had significantly greater VO2max, VEmax, HRmax, and time to exhaustion than in the aero position. In a submaximal test at 45%VO2max, Ss had significantly greater oxygen uptake and heart rate in the aero position than in the upright position. In other submaximal tests at 55%VO2max and 65%VO2max, there were no significant differences between the two positions.

Implication. Different body positions affect physiological responses when they are tested at maximal and 45%VO2max submaximal exercise intensities in cycle ergometer.

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