The Association of Anthropometric Characteristics and Cycling Performance among Male Elite Professional Cyclists of the Air Force Team, Sri Lanka

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.