Reid, A. K., & Sleivert, G. G. (1999). The effects of concurrent aerobic and anaerobic training versus sequenced training on 80 s cycling. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 31(5), Supplement abstract 789.

This study investigated the influence of concurrent versus sequenced aerobic and anaerobic training on supramaximal cycling performance. Trained cyclists of both genders (N = 24) trained for a total of 19 weeks. The first five weeks established a stable baseline level of fitness. Then Ss were randomly assigned to either a concurrent 12-week aerobic-anaerobic training group, or a sequential 6-week aerobic, 6-week anaerobic training group. Sixty training sessions were completed, at a rate of five training sessions per week. Assessments were made at the end of each 6-week block of training.

Both groups improved similarly in performance after 12 weeks of training. However, the way in which the 80-s test was completed differed between the groups. The concurrent group improved mainly because of an increase in maximal power at each stage of the test. No changes in aerobic function were revealed. The aerobic training group demonstrated changes associated with metabolic factors.

The order or mix of anaerobic and aerobic training does not differentially affect cycling performance. Rather, the total training volume is associated most with performance changes.

Implication. Training volume, not type of training, is associated most with sprint performance improvements in cyclists.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.