Influence of lateral pedal translation on muscle recruitment and kinematics in cyclists

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Current cycling pedals constrain the pedaling motion to the sagittal plane. This study aimed to evaluate novel pedal systems that allow lateral translation through the pedal stroke via frontal plane kinematics and muscle recruitment. METHODS: Sixteen cyclists were recruited to pedal on three pedal systems: standard pedals (STD), free lateral translation (LAT), and a guided lateral translation pedal (VL). Frontal plane kinematics were measured via markers on the hip, knee, and foot. EMG recordings were collected from 8 leg muscles and expressed as a percentage of functional threshold power activation levels. RESULTS: Knee and ankle range of movement was significantly more highly correlated in the VL pedals compared to STD (r = .46 ± .08, vs. .23 ± .05; p = .028). The rectus femoris was recruited significantly less in the VL vs. STD pedals (23.6 ± 7.7% lower, p = .008). The hip abductors were more highly recruited in VL vs. STD: gluteus medius (16.9 ± 7.2% higher, p = .033) and the tensor fascia latae (30.9 ± 8.5% lower, p = .003). CONCLUSION: VL pedals may improve knee-to-ankle tracking through the pedal stroke and may allow cyclists to increase power output through the additional recruitment of hip abductors.