Work

Interplay of Muscle Architecture, Morphology, and Quality in Influencing Human Sprint Cycling Performance: A Systematic Review

Year: 2024

Type: review

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This systematic review aimed to discern the relationships between muscle morphology, architecture, and quality with sprint cycling performance while considering the multifaceted nature of these relationships across diverse studies. METHODS: Employing the PRISMA guidelines, an exhaustive search was performed across four primary databases: MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL Complete, and SPORTDiscus. The Methodological Index For Non-Randomised Studies (MINORS) was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. Out of 3971 initially identified records, only 10 studies met the eligibility criteria. RESULTS: from 0.65 to 0.82), suggesting its pivotal role in force production. In muscle architecture, the pennation angle and fascicle length showed varied associations with performance. Furthermore, muscle quality, as denoted by echo intensity, showed preliminary evidence of a potential inverse relationship with performance. The methodological quality assessment revealed varied scores, with the most consistent reporting on the aim, endpoints, and inclusion of consecutive patients. However, limitations were observed in the prospective calculation of study size and unbiased assessment of study endpoints. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that muscle volume is a major determinant of sprint cycling performance. Muscle architecture and quality also impact performance, although in a more intricate way. The review calls for standardised methodologies in future research for a more comprehensive understanding and comparability of results. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023432824 ( https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=432824 ).

Source: Sports Medicine - Open

DOI: 10.1186/s40798-024-00752-2

Authors: Saul Martin-Rodriguez, Juan J. Gonzalez-Henriquez, Iker J. Bautista, Jose A. L. Calbet, Joaquin Sanchis-Moysi

Institutions: Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, University of Chichester, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Sports Performance and Training

Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,990