Abstract:
Background: Cycling is one of the most demanding sports, requiring a combination of
physiological and anthropometric abilities to maximize performance.
Objectives: To determine how the performance level of male elite professional cyclists of Sri
Lanka is related to anthropometric traits
Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 20 male professional
cyclists from the Sri Lankan Air Force. Anthropometric parameters including thigh circumference,
limb length, body mass, and body height, were measured using measuring tapes, bioelectrical
impedance analyser, portable weight scale, and stadiometer, respectively. Cyclist’s performance
level was examined using the Beep test to determine the maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂
max). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25.0. Correlations between the above
factors were investigated using Pearson correlation test.
Results: The mean±SD age was 26.2±6 years, while the average VO₂ max of the individuals was
51.61±5.53 mL/kg/min. The performance level showed a statistically significant moderate
negative correlation with the BMI (r= -0.533, p=0.015) and the right thigh girth (r= -0.446,
p=0.049). However, no significant relationships were found between performance level and limb
length.
Conclusions: The present study concluded that the cyclists with lower BMI and lower right thigh
girth showed better cycling performance.
