Importance of Cadence in Bicycle Ergometer Training: A Review

Abstract

Reports concerning the evaluation of therapeutic ergometer training are scarce. Most articles deal with cyclists. The longer the duration of the exercise, the lower the cadence should be. Well-trained cyclists use higher cadences than others because of their skill and coordination. At higher cadences, it is more difficult to direct forces optimally; on the other hand, the peak force generated per pedal thrust decreases with increasing cadence. A higher cadence also means a higher heart rate, ventilation, oxygen uptake and blood lactate concentration. Lowest oxygen uptake and highest efficiency shift to higher frequencies with increasing work load. There are some differences in stress response (central hemodynamics) with regard to pedal speed in normal individuals and in patients suffering from cardiac disease. For non-cyclists, the subjective rating of perceived exertion is supposed to be minimal between 60 and 80 rpm. Patients with coronary heart disease usually rate the exertion higher than do normal individuals in relation to heart rate. The published literature regarding prescribed cadences for therapeutic ergometer training was reviewed, and an attempt was made to arrive at final conclusions in this regard.