The effects of an intensive cycle training camp on inter-limb asymmetry in Race Across America (RAAM) athletes

This study examined the daily changes in group mean and individual inter-limb asymmetry scores recorded during an intensive 7-day cycle training camp. These effects were analysed in eight RAAM cyclists. A linear Kinematic variable relating to flight time was used to calculate jump height via a contact mat for three standardized jump trials of each limb, prior to daily cycle training. Inter-limb asymmetries were quantified as a percentage difference between limbs from the average of 3 trials, with differences of over 10% being identified as a potential issue. Results indicated that magnitude of change (Cohen’s-d) were trivial to small (d = 0.56 to -0.09), displaying both positive and negative effects, while 95% confidence intervals displayed a wide data range [-09.1, 0.44]. Further analysis on individual percentage change demonstrates high variability in daily scores ranging from -25.4% to 32.7%.