That is the conclusion of a study published in the August edition of the International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance.
Those with superior technical and physical cycling ability can save energy for the run by riding more conservatively during the cycle section, although they can use variable power to their advantage by tiring weaker cyclists for the run.
In addition to impaired overall performance, a slower first half of the run section after the fatigue of variable rate cycling could also impair the athlete’s ability to establish or sustain a favourable race position.
The report also found that Triathletes should avoid varying their pace too much during the run, aiming for a solid start to avoid a decay in speed in the latter stages.
Specific sustained interval training to overcome the high physiological and perceptual disturbances during triathlon cycling should minimize fatigue during the cycle and reduce the time lost on the subsequent run.
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