Effect of Toe Clips during Bicycle Ergometry on [Vdot]O₂ max

Abstract

Previous investigators have yielded conflicting results in testing the hypothesis that the use of toe clips during bicycle ergometry produces a higher maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O ₂ max) than testing without toe clips. Eight men, four competitive cyclists and four competitive distance runners volunteered to participate in three randomized [Vdot]O ₂ max tests: 1) a treadmill running lest, 2) a bicycle ergometer test using standard toe clips, and 3) a test on the same ergometer without toe clips. The highest mean [Vdot]O ₂ max was observed in the treadmill condition as expected. However, no statistically significant difference in mean [Vdot]O ₂ max or performance time was observed between the toe-clip and no toe-clip conditions. Based on these results, the research hypothesis was rejected and no favorable physiological effect may be attributed to the use of toe clips.

Key Words:

• ergometry
• [Vdot]O₂ max
• toe-clips