This study aimed to describe then compare physical behaviors profile in female recreational cyclist to professional cyclists.
Physical behaviors variables (Physical activity: total steps, standing time, stepping time, and cycling time, Sedentary behavior: sitting time, and sleep time) were collected for 7 days from 12 cyclist via accelerometry (activPAL4) during their off season. Data were analyzed using t-test and p 0.05 was considered significant.
Age significantly differs in recreational cyclists (44.5 years ± 13.2) compared to professional cyclists (30.5 years ± 4.6). BMI was similar in both groups (professional cyclists 21.2 ± 3, recreational cyclists 23.7 ± 2.2). All assessed physical behaviors variables were similar in both groups albeit a trend of higher cycling time (professional cyclists: 58.2 m ± 24.5 vs recreational cyclists: 27.4 m ± 30.3) and lower sitting time (professional cyclists: 480 m ± 95.6 vs recreational cyclists: 578.8 m ± 75.3) in professional compared to recreational cyclists (P0.1). Further, both groups engaged in high levels of sedentary behavior greater than 8 hours per day. Were engaged in high levels of physical activity demonstrated by an average of 14000 steps per day. Lastly, sleep time was about 7.75 h/d in both groups.
Both group of cyclists exhibit similar physical behaviors profile of high sedentary behavior, physical activity, and achieved recommended sleep duration. However, due to the known link between sedentary behavior and metabolic health it is worth to be assessed further.
This study showed despite regular bouts of physical activity the study participants engaged in high levels of sedentary behavior which might increase their risk of metabolic disorders. Thus, future intervention needs to target both increasing physical activity and decreasing sedentary behavior at the same time across ages and fitness levels.
Sleep
Physical Activity
