A numerical design methodology for optimal pacing strategy in the individual time trial discipline of cycling
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: In this paper, we have developed a numerical design methodology for computing optimal pacing strategies for the individual time trial discipline in professional cycling. These strategies minimise the finishing time for a given cyclist racing on a given course by optimising how their power output is distributed along the course. The method is based on a finite element formulation and adjoint sensitivity analysis is used to minimise the finishing time subjected to a physiological constraint based on the principle of normalised power. We apply the method to four hypothetical courses of $$2\;\textrm{km}$$ 2 km simulating various gradients and wind conditions. A parameter-dependent simulation showed between $$0.45\%$$ 0.45 % and $$2.84\%$$ 2.84 % improvements in finishing times compared to benchmark pacing strategies. The method is also applied on a real-world course and the results are compared to the pacing strategy of professional cyclist and ITT specialist Martin Toft Madsen. The optimised strategy is $$1.2\%$$ 1.2 % faster over $$21.3\;\textrm{km}$$ 21.3 km . We believe that the method presented here constitutes a promising framework for efficient computation of optimal pacing strategies and with further research and a more accurate physiological model; this could prove an important tool for strategising in professional cycling.
Source: Sports Engineering
Institutions: University of Copenhagen, University of Southern Denmark
Language: English
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,990
Funder: Syddansk Universitet
OpenAlex ID: W4408404692