Focusing attention on circular pedaling reduces movement economy in cycling

• Published in: Psychology of sport and exercise 2016-11, Vol.27, p.9-17
• Main Authors: Schücker, L., Fleddermann, M., de Lussanet, M., Elischer, J., Böhmer, C., Zentgraf, K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Endurance activities; Optimal attentional focus; Oxygen consumption
• ISSN: 1469-0292
• DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2016.07.002

Previous research has shown that focus of attention affects movement economy in endurance tasks. This experimental study was designed to take a closer look at how focusing attention on special characteristics of endurance cycling actions can influence metabolic energy costs. Twenty-five trained cyclists completed 4 × 6 min time trials at submaximal intensity on a cycling ergometer. For each of the four time trials, they were instructed to adopt a different focus of attention: (1) circular pedaling, (2) force production of quad muscles, (3) head position, (4) stimuli in a cycling video. The order of conditions was counterbalanced. The main dependent measure was movement economy (i.e., oxygen consumption at a given workload). The results show that a focus on the circular pedaling action leads to reduced economy than a focus on the video (p = 0.001). Focusing on smooth and circular pedaling includes a continuous monitoring of the cycling action, which could disturb the rhythmical nature of movement execution, thereby leading to detriments in movement economy. •Attentional focus instructions affect movement economy in cycling.•A continuous monitoring of the circular pedaling action is detrimental to economy.•Focus of attention effects in endurance sports should be seen in a more differentiated way.