Can the Lamberts and Lambert Submaximal Cycle Test Indicate Fatigue and Recovery in Trained Cyclists?

Daniel Hammes, Sabrina Skorski, Sascha Schwindling, Alexander Ferrauti, Mark Pfeiffer, Michael Kellmann, Tim Meyer

The Lamberts and Lambert Submaximal Cycle Test (LSCT) is a novel test designed to monitor performance, and fatigue/recovery in cyclists. Studies have shown the ability to predict performance; however, there is a lack of studies concerning monitoring of fatigue/recovery. 23 trained male cyclists (31±9y, VO2max: 59.4±7.4 ml/min/kg) completed a training camp. The LSCT was conducted at day 1, day 8, and day 11. After day 1, an intensive 6-day training period was performed. Between day 8 and day 11, recovery period was realized. The LSCT consists of three stages with fixed heart rates of 6min at 60% and 80% and 3min at 90% of maximum heart rate. During the stages, power output and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were determined. Heart rate recovery (HRR) was measured after stage 3. Power output almost certainly (standardized mean difference: 1.0) and RPE very likely (1.7) increased from day 1 to day 8 at stage 2. Power output likely (0.4) and RPE almost certainly (2.6) increased at stage 3. From day 8 to day 11, power output possibly (-0.4) and RPE likely (-1.5) decreased at stage 2 and possibly (-0.1) and almost certainly (-1.9) at stage 3. HRR was likely (0.7) accelerated from day 1 to day 8. Changes from day 8 to day 11 were unclear (-0.1). The LSCT can be used for monitoring fatigue and recovery, since parameters were responsive to a fatiguing training and a following recovery period. However, consideration of multiple LSCT variables is required to interpret the results correctly.