It’s not uncommon to hear talk in the bunch about the weight of bikes, accessories and of course body weight. We all want to climb faster than our fellow riders to get that next KOM and with weight being so easy to measure and therefore compare, it is perhaps not surprising that for cyclists this can be a topic of interest. 

In 2015, the AIS investigated the satisfaction of elite female cyclists with their body weight in the context of race performance. Perhaps unsurprisingly, we found that female cyclists, overwhelming viewed themselves as a “weight conscious population” with 73% reporting that their career-lowest body weight was beneficial for performance and 62% reporting that their current body weight was not ideal for performance in upcoming races (National Championships & Oceania Championships).

 I’m not convinced these findings are gender specific and am curious as to whether they are more sport specific. To answer this question, we are now collaborating with Dr. Matthew Hoon, Australian Catholic University, to investigate similar themes in male cyclists – this time using an online survey. 

As an extension of the original study, we are also investigating trends for the use of gym based resistance training. While not a traditional training modality for road cyclists, gym based weight training has in recent times become increasingly popular. 

In summary, we are looking to study the topic of race weight in male cyclists. Specifically, we are hoping to find out more about their attitudes towards diet, training and weight management in preparation for competition.

What’s involved?

• Complete an anonymous 10-15min online survey

Participants need to be:

• Male cyclists (road, MTB or track), over 18 years of age

• Currently racing in local A/B grade (or equivalent) and above

If you are interested and eligible, please visit

https://rdcap.acu.edu.au/surveys/?s=WL8HNMMA3X

For more information, please contact

Mathew Hoon
matthew.hoon@acu.edu.au

Eric Haakonssen PhD
Senior Physiologist | Australian Institute of Sport

Cycling Australia BMX High Performance Unit