Inverse relationship between V?O2max and gross efficiency.

The aim of this study was to identify if an inverse relationship exists between Gross Efficiency (GE) and V?O2max in trained cyclists. In Experiment 1, 14 trained cyclist's GE and V?O2max were recorded at 5 different phases of a cycling 'self-coached' season using an incremental laboratory test. In Experiment 2, 29 trained cyclists undertook 12 weeks of training in one of 2 randomly allocated groups (A and B). Over the first 6 weeks Group A was prescribed specific high-intensity training sessions, whilst Group B were restricted in the amount of intensive work they could conduct. In the second 6-week period, both groups were allowed to conduct high intensity training. Results of both experiments in this study demonstrate training related increases in GE, but not V?O2max. A significant inverse within-subject correlation was evident in experiment 1 between GE and V?O2max across the training season (r=-0.32; P<0.05). In experiment 2, a significant inverse within-subject correlation was found between changes in GE and V?O2max in Group A over the first 6 weeks of training (r=-0.78; P<0.01). Resultantly, a training related inverse relationship between GE and V?O2max is evident in these groups of trained cyclists.