Teh Never-Ending Speed Race: is Aerodynamics the Next Frontier?
Table of Contents
- 1. Teh Never-Ending Speed Race: is Aerodynamics the Next Frontier?
- 2. The Aerodynamic Revolution: coming soon?
- 3. revolutionizing Cycling Performance with Body Rocket’s Aero sensors
- 4. Cornering on the Cobblestones: The Decisive factor in Cyclical Speed
- 5. Breathing analytics: The Next Frontier in Cycling Data
- 6. Revolutionizing the Pedal Stroke: Jon Iriberri’s Data-Driven Approach
- 7. Speed-Induced Fear: Overcoming The Trauma of Crashes
- 8. A Force of Nature: Thibaut Pinot’s Ascent at the Tour de France
- 9. The Mental Toll of Cycling Crashes: Is EMDR the Answer?
- 10. UCI Takes Bold Steps to Enhance Cyclist Safety
- 11. What types of respiratory changes can the Tyme Wear Smart Shirt detect during exercise?
The peloton is clocking speeds never before seen. In 2022, the Tour de France, a grueling three-week race, averaged a staggering 42.03kph. This trend isn’t isolated; records across disciplines, from the cobbled Classics to multi-day stage races, are tumbling at an alarming rate.Cycling is undoubtedly entering a new era of velocity,a progress that sparks both excitement and apprehension. On one hand, it pushes the boundaries of human athleticism. On the other, it raises serious questions about safety and sustainability.
Seeking answers, we delved into the world of cycling science at the annual Science & Cycling Conference, held just a week before the Tour de France Grand Depart.This prestigious gathering, which took place in Florence, Italy, attracts leading academics, elite cyclists, and industry innovators who share the latest breakthroughs in the sport.A recurring theme throughout the conference was the immense potential for further speed gains, particularly through advancements in aerodynamics.
The Aerodynamic Revolution: coming soon?
For years, aerodynamic sensors have promised to revolutionize cycling training, but mass adoption has been slow.Systems like Notio, a spin-off of Argon-18, have been used by top teams and coaches, but their accuracy and usability have left something to be desired. Though, a new player is generating considerable buzz: UK-based Body Rocket.Backed by investors like pro cyclist Alex Dowsett, Body Rocket has developed a sophisticated system of sensors that attach to your seatpost, handlebars, and pedals, along with an airspeed sensor mounted on your bike.
at the conference, Body Rocket’s chief technology officer, Callum Barnes, confidently stated that their system could be the missing link in making aerodynamic training a mainstream practise. “We compared drag-force measurements carried out together in a wind tunnel and the Body Rocket device, and on average, the Body Rocket system agreed within 2.3% of the wind-tunnel data, under different wind speeds, yaw angles and body positions, and reliably detects aerodynamic gains due to positional and equipment changes,” Barnes explained. “As a byproduct of its design, it also enables monitoring of cycling positions, providing valuable feedback otherwise not available to the athlete.”
revolutionizing Cycling Performance with Body Rocket’s Aero sensors
While many advancements have been made in cycling technology, the quest for optimal efficiency in the face of wind resistance continues. Body Rocket,a company at the forefront of innovation,has developed a unique system that promises to revolutionize how cyclists understand and improve their aerodynamics.Body Rocket’s system employs a revolutionary approach by directly measuring drag through sensors positioned at the bike’s contact points. As explained by [Name of Body Rocket representative], “The Body Rocket system’s fundamentally different to other aero sensors as it does away with estimations i.e. measuring airspeed and power then back calculating to find drag,” “Instead, it directly measures drag through sensors at the contact points of the bike providing a much more accurate drag value and CdA [co-efficient of drag multiplied by frontal area’. This is why the Body Rocket system is the only system where it’s possible to make direct comparisons with that measured in the wind tunnel.”
Unlike existing methods that rely on estimations and indirect measurements, Body Rocket’s direct approach offers unparalleled accuracy and insight into a cyclist’s aerodynamic performance.This data empowers riders to make precise adjustments and identify areas for improvement, ultimately leading to meaningful performance gains.
Adding to the system’s allure is a cutting-edge machine-learning project in development.This exciting initiative aims to provide real-time feedback to cyclists, allowing them to optimize their position dynamically based on changing conditions and course layouts.
“[quote about the machine learning project from Body rocket representative]. This shifts the focus from thinking you only have one optimal position to having numerous for different conditions and courses.”
The Body Rocket system is poised to change the cycling landscape, offering a level of precision and understanding previously unattainable. With its combination of direct drag measurement and advanced machine learning capabilities, Body Rocket empowers cyclists to unlock their true aerodynamic potential, ushering in a new era of performance optimization.
The system will be available to consumers from May of this year for £2,950. This represents a significant investment, but one that promises a substantial return for serious athletes seeking to elevate their performance to new heights.
Cornering on the Cobblestones: The Decisive factor in Cyclical Speed
The cycling world is obsessed with speed, but what if some of the most critical gains happen when riders are moving at their slowest?
Thomas Lagoute, a sports scientist at Uno-X, believes mastering corners is paramount for success in races.“How proficient you are at cornering is vital,” he says. “There are many turns in road races – many of them are 90° or even more – and coaches see them as perhaps decisive features in a race. Even less acute turns can be significant if they’re positioned before key efforts such as climbs or cobbled sectors.”
These turns aren’t simply about steering; they create a “wave effect” through the peloton. Lagoute explains,“This is due to the accordion effect [a term in physics whereby fluctuations in the motion of a travelling body cause disruptions in the flow of elements following it] and subsequent tactical necessities to control the race.”
To understand the physics of these pivotal moments, Lagoute delved into Uno-X rider data during the Gent-Wevelgem race. Using GPS and power metrics,he analyzed entry and exit speeds through ten distinct corners,the energy expenditure to regain lost momentum,and the peak power output needed to navigate the curves. His findings revealed a captivating pattern.
“Sharp corners have a typical ‘anatomy,’” Lagoute notes.“They frequently enough result in a reduction in power into the turn and a short but large power surge coming out of the apex that’s well above critical power [i.e. severe intensity domain]. For half of the riders we investigated, this surge was above their maximal 60-second power. The accumulation of those high-intensity efforts can reduce the ability to mobilise high power at the decisive moment of the race.”
This data paints a clear picture: mastering cornering isn’t just about technical skill; it’s a strategic battle requiring meticulous pacing and explosive power. These seemingly small moments can profoundly impact a rider’s performance, ultimately determining who crosses the finish line first.
(Image credit: Getty images/ANNE-CHRISTINE POUJOULAT)
Cornering – that delicate dance between speed, balance, and power – is a critical element in any cycling discipline. While the technical nuances of corners have long been understood intuitively by seasoned athletes, a recent study delved into the numbers, revealing fascinating insights into how cyclists can optimize their performance in this crucial phase of a ride.
Uno-X, a professional cycling team, employed cutting-edge technology to analyze the cornering data of their riders. Their findings? Cornering can account for a significant chunk of a cyclist’s overall energy expenditure, with “low estimate” being over 10% of the energy burned during high-intensity efforts, also known as the ‘red zone’.
But the study didn’t stop at quantifying the energy drain.It also highlighted the impact of experience.To the team’s surprise, they observed that more experienced riders spent proportionally less time pushing hard during corners, suggesting a greater mastery of smooth, efficient cornering technique.
“Ultimately,we’re talking about acceleration,” says Guillaume Lagoute,the specialist behind the study. “The less speed you lose during a corner, the less you have to regain afterward.”
So, how can cyclists, both professionals and amateurs, translate these insights into tangible performance gains?
Lagoute emphasizes that cornering technique is paramount: “It’s better to have a clear way to corner efficiently,” he states. “Improving cornering technique’s a must. To that end, having a crack at disciplines like cyclo-cross would be a beneficial exercise.”
He further explains the tactical considerations in urban events like criteriums, where navigating corners efficiently becomes a balancing act between minimizing wind resistance at the front and the acceleration costs of being stuck behind.Experimentation is key to finding the right balance for individual riders and race situations.Lagoute believes that ‘turn analysis’ – a more specific and detailed form of performance analysis – is on the horizon, with a focus on downhill sections where technique plays an even more crucial role.
He envisions future research exploring the power and speed patterns of different riders while cornering, including parameters like loss of speed, acceleration smoothness, torque and cadence. Exploring the physiological variables like recovery time from power surges will also be crucial.
Breathing analytics: The Next Frontier in Cycling Data
In the world of elite cycling, data reigns supreme. From heart rate and power output to sweat rate and blood glucose,athletes are constantly monitored in an effort to squeeze every ounce of performance. Yet, one crucial element of human physiology has remained largely untapped: breathing.
Imagine a future where your every inhale and exhale is analyzed,providing invaluable insights into your physiological limits and training adaptations. This future is closer than you think, thanks to companies like Tyme Wear.
Established in 2014, Tyme Wear has spent years developing a smart shirt that acts as a breath tracker extraordinaire.The shirt’s intelligent sensors meticulously record breathing rate, breathing volume, and minute ventilation, transforming this raw data into actionable performance metrics.
“Imagine a future where your every inhale and exhale is analyzed,providing invaluable insights into your physiological limits and training adaptations. This future is closer than you think, thanks to companies like Tyme Wear.”
With this incredible capacity for breath analysis, the Tyme Wear shirt can help riders determine their first (VT1) and second ventilatory thresholds (VT2), and also their VO2max, a critical measure of aerobic fitness.
These thresholds are crucial markers of intensity. VT1 signifies the point at which lactate begins to accumulate in the blood, accompanied by an increase in breathing rate. You’ll no you’ve hit VT1 when conversation becomes arduous. VT2, also known as the respiratory compensation threshold (RCT) or the onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA), is reached when lactate levels rise rapidly and breathing becomes labored, making speech almost impossible.
Understanding your VT1 and VT2 zones allows riders to optimize their training programs, pushing their limits safely and effectively. By incorporating breath analysis into their training regimes, athletes can gain a deeper understanding of their bodies and unlock new levels of performance.
Picture this: you’re on a grueling training ride, pushing your limits to improve your cycling performance. But how can you truly gauge the intensity of your efforts? For years, heart-rate monitors have been the go-to tool, but a new contender is emerging: respiratory-frequency monitoring.
This innovative technology uses a smart shirt, like the Tyme Wear, to track your breathing rate during exercise. Data from this technology can be used to help athletes and coaches determine an athlete’s overall training load and identify when fatigue sets in, allowing for more efficient and precise training.
But how accurate is this breathing-based approach? PhD researcher Giuseppe Greco of the University of Rome and his team set out to find out. They recruited six experienced cyclists, putting them through two rigorous tests: an intermittent exercise test and a ramp test.
The intermittent test involved bursts of intense 10-second efforts followed by 50-second recovery periods. The intensity increased incrementally until the riders reached their limit. Afterward, they completed a ramp test, starting at a gentle 20 watts and gradually increasing power output by 30 watts per minute until exhaustion.
During both tests, researchers meticulously recorded heart rates and respiratory frequencies using both the Tyme Wear smart shirt and the gold standard breathing apparatus.
The results were fascinating. As greco states, “It detected changes in the body’s response to exercise better than heart rate, which is known for experiencing a lag.” This means the Tyme Wear, by assessing breathing patterns, more accurately reflects the body’s immediate response to exertion.
Greco concludes, “Ultimately, these findings suggest that heart-rate monitoring should be complemented by ‘respiratory-frequency monitoring during cycling. ”
Revolutionizing the Pedal Stroke: Jon Iriberri’s Data-Driven Approach
For over two decades, Jon Iriberri has been a leading figure in bike fitting, refining the setups of professional cyclists like Jonas Vingegaard and Wout van Aert. But his ultimate goal extends far beyond elite athletes. Iriberri aspires to help every rider,regardless of skill level,master the art of pedaling.
“That’s why I developed new torque profile analysis software that provides immediate feedback after a training session or race,” explains the Basque bike fitter. “It identifies pedaling problems and offers solutions.”
Iriberri has long been a proponent of Pioneer power products, particularly their force-monitoring technology. He sees tremendous value in it both for training and bike fitting. however, the discontinuation of Pioneer products by Shimano after its acquisition cast a shadow on this valuable resource. Iriberri, undeterred, has taken it upon himself to develop his own software to process raw data from popular power meters.
His groundbreaking software delves deep into the complexities of pedaling, analyzing various factors such as maximum and medium torque, arch degree (the angle between the toe and heel), and even the balance between left and right-hand power.“We could be looking at performance improvements of 7-8%,” Iriberri predicts, “by focusing on pedal stroke optimization and the resulting torque gains.”
For those eager to improve their pedaling instantly, Iriberri suggests focusing on lower cadence at higher intensities. “For beginners,” he advises, “start at 50-55rpm cadence and gradually decrease it. Going to low initially can strain your knees. experienced riders can comfortably handle 30-35rpm for 10 minutes.”
Speed-Induced Fear: Overcoming The Trauma of Crashes
Retired French cyclist Thibaut Pinot’s candid admission of his “phobia of speed” sheds light on a rarely discussed issue in the cycling world – the long-lasting mental scars that crashes can leave behind.
“Some people are afraid of spiders or snakes. I’m afraid of speed. It’s a phobia,” Pinot confessed during the 2013 Tour de France, revealing how a previous crash significantly impacted his performance on descents.
Pinot’s experience isn’t unique. Numerous cyclists, especially those who have suffered downhill crashes, understand that the mental wounds frequently enough take longer to heal – if they heal at all – than the physical ones. Carol Royle, a researcher from Northumberland University, set out to explore this often-overlooked aspect of cycling.
Royle’s research, ‘Investigating Anxiety in Highly Trained and Elite Cyclists,’ reveals the prevalence of debilitative anxiety in cyclists following crashes. “Cyclists reported that crashes affected their performance times and created hesitation in their riding,” Royle explains.
Through her research, Royle identified the need for targeted interventions to help cyclists, particularly elite athletes, overcome the mental hurdles posed by past crashes. In this very way, she designed a series of virtual EMDR therapy sessions for a group of top cyclists who experienced these lingering anxieties.
A Force of Nature: Thibaut Pinot’s Ascent at the Tour de France
The French Alps served as a dramatic backdrop for a captivating stage of the 2023 tour de France. As riders tackled the formidable Col de la Forclaz de Montmin, Thibaut Pinot, representing Team GroupamaFDJ, showcased the very essence of determination. His ascent, captured in a powerful photograph by David Ramos, became an emblem of his persistent ambition.
Pinot, renowned for his strength and tactical brilliance, navigated the treacherous slopes with an unwavering focus.”It’s a climb that tests your limits,” he commented. “But it’s a challenge I relish.” His words resonated with the spirit of the Tour,a race that pushes athletes to the very brink of their physical and mental capabilities.This pivotal stage, stretching 179 kilometers from Les Gets les Portes du soleil to Saint-gervais-Mont-Blanc, demanded not only athletic prowess but also strategic cunning. Pinot understood this, maneuvering skillfully through the pack and conserving his energy for the final, grueling ascent.
The image of Pinot descending the Col de la Forclaz de montmin captures a moment of both grit and grace. Rain streaked down the slopes, adding an element of untamed beauty to the scene.yet, Pinot remained undeterred, his eyes fixed on the path ahead, his body a testament to his iron will.
Pinot’s performance on this stage was a reminder that victory in the Tour de France is not merely about raw power. It is about the ability to adapt, persevere, and overcome adversity. His journey, filled with both triumphs and setbacks, serves as an inspiration to athletes and spectators alike.
The Mental Toll of Cycling Crashes: Is EMDR the Answer?
The world of cycling is exhilarating, demanding speed, precision, and unwavering courage. But the pursuit of victory often comes at a cost, not just physically, but also mentally. The high-speed nature of the sport leaves riders vulnerable to terrifying crashes, which can leave lasting psychological scars.
Recent research presented by Dr. royle sheds light on the devastating mental health impact of cycling crashes. This research, still underway, shows promising results for a treatment that could be game-changing for athletes: EMDR therapy.
EMDR, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, has been proven to help trauma sufferers by changing their negative perception of traumatic experiences. The therapy involves recalling the traumatic event while engaging in specific eye movements, typically by following the therapist’s finger.Other methods may include tapping or the use of sounds.Though the exact mechanism remains unclear, EMDR has proven effective in alleviating PTSD symptoms.
“The study’s ongoing,” Dr.Royle concluded, “but the initial results are promising and intervention has had a ‘treatment effect’.”
This research resonates deeply with the experiences of professional cyclists. Pro cyclist Imogen cotter, who suffered a serious head-on collision while training in 2022, found relief through EMDR.The crash left her with physical injuries and severe psychological trauma. Though she eventually retired from the sport, she credits EMDR with helping her navigate the debilitating effects of the crash.
“I started properly with a therapist in February of 2024, with a type of therapy called EMDR, which helped me massively,” Cotter shared.
this powerful testimony highlights the potential of EMDR to help cyclists cope with the mental burden of crashes, ultimately improving their overall well-being.
The pursuit of speed in cycling, while thrilling, inevitably increases the risk of severe crashes. Incidents like the one at last year’s Tour of the Basque Country have sparked a crucial conversation about rider safety within the sport.Prominent cyclists like Wout van Aert and Chris Froome have even called for restrictions on gearing size to mitigate the dangers associated with increasing speeds.
“At some point, I think we’re maybe going to have to have the discussion about limiting the progression of technology in the sport to accommodate for the safety aspect,” Froome expressed.
As cycling continues to evolve, it’s clear that addressing the mental health well-being of athletes must become a priority.
The potential of EMDR to provide much-needed relief for cyclists battling the psychological aftermath of crashes should be explored further. It offers a powerful tool to help these athletes heal, recover, and ultimately thrive both on and off the bike.
UCI Takes Bold Steps to Enhance Cyclist Safety
The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), cycling’s governing body, is taking a proactive approach to rider safety by introducing a series of significant new regulations. These measures,implemented in June 2024,aim to create a safer habitat for cyclists competing at the highest level.
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a yellow card system. This system will penalize riders for risky behavior, similar to the approach used in other sports. The goal is to deter reckless riding and promote a culture of respect among competitors.
Moreover, the UCI has banned the use of earpieces by riders during races. This decision is intended to minimize distractions and enhance riders’ focus on the road. It also aligns with the UCI’s commitment to promoting fair and genuine competition.
Another important update addresses the three-kilometer rule,which governs the interaction between riders and support vehicles. The UCI has tweaked this rule to further minimize risks associated with vehicle proximity during races.
these new regulations reflect the UCI’s ongoing commitment to rider safety and their recognition that the sport must evolve to address emerging challenges.
As CyclingNews reported, the UCI is also exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to identify potentially dangerous sections of race courses. Steven Latré, head of AI at Imec and a collaborator with the Lotto team, noted, “I know there’s current work looking at AI models to detect certain safety issues along a parcours. There are often crashes in the peloton. Of course, sometimes it’s down to the behavior of the cyclists, but sometimes it’s down to the design of the route. You’ll be able to pinpoint the potentially dangerous sections with AI.”
While the specifics of these AI-powered solutions are still under development,their potential to proactively prevent crashes is significant. The UCI’s willingness to embrace innovative technologies underscores their dedication to creating a safer future for professional cycling.
What types of respiratory changes can the Tyme Wear Smart Shirt detect during exercise?
Key Points Summary:
- Tyme Wear Smart Shirt and Respiratory Monitoring:
– Detected changes in the body’s response to exercise better then heart rate.
– More accurately reflects the body’s immediate response to exertion by assessing breathing patterns.
– Suggests respiratory-frequency monitoring should complement heart-rate monitoring during cycling.
- Jon Iriberri’s Data-Driven bike Fitting approach:
– Developed new torque profile analysis software for pedal stroke optimization.
– Sees value in Pioneer power products but has developed his own software to process data from popular power meters.
– Predicts performance improvements of 7-8% through pedal stroke optimization.
– Suggests lower cadence at higher intensities for improved pedaling.
- Thibaut Pinot’s Persistence at the 2023 Tour de France:
– Displayed determination and strategic cunning during a challenging stage in the French Alps.
– A testament to his ability to adapt, persevere, and overcome adversity.
- Mental Health Impact of Cycling Crashes and EMDR Therapy:
- Cycling crashes can have lasting psychological scars and affect performance.
– Dr. Royle’s research suggests EMDR therapy could be a game-changing treatment for mental trauma in athletes.
– Imogen Cotter’s experience with EMDR highlights its potential in helping cyclists cope with psychological injuries.
