Investigation of performance indicator variables according to different saddle height determination methods in cycling

The purpose of this study was to compare the functional threshold power (FTP) and maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) test results performed at different saddle heights. Additionally, this study aimed to examine the relationships between strength, flexibility, and performance variables. The study group comprised of 27 male road cyclists. Participants underwent anthropometric measurements, strength and flexibility tests, and FTP and VO₂max testing using three different saddle height determination methods: the LeMond method, LeMond method plus 4%, and 141-degree method. For statistical analysis, repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare measurements across the different saddle heights, while Pearson correlation tests were employed to analyze the relationships between variables. The participants' mean age was 15,3±1,7 years, body weight 57,6±8,5 kg, height 170,5±6,3 cm, body fat percentage 14,0±4,5 %, and body mass index 19,7±2,2 kg/m². Mean values for right handgrip strength (HGS), left HGS, leg strength, back strength, and flexibility were 35,7±5,8 kg, 34,5±6,7 kg, 109,3±19,3 kg, 92,8±24,4 kg, and 35,1±2,2 cm, respectively. No statistically significant differences were found between the FTP and VO₂max results obtained using the three saddle height methods (p > 0,05). The highest VO₂max value was recorded using Method 1 (60,8±5,8 ml/kg/min), while the highest VO₂max power output was observed with Method 3 (307±48 W). Moderate positive correlations (r = 0,50–0,65) were found between FTP and average power values and strength variables, including right and left HGS, leg strength, and back strength across the different saddle height conditions. Additionally, moderate to strong positive correlations (r = 0,47–0,74) were identified between VO₂max power outputs and the same strength parameters. Increases in muscular strength were associated with higher FTP and VO₂max power values. No significant differences were found in the FTP and VO₂max results among the different saddle height determination methods. However, strength variables demonstrated meaningful associations with performance outcomes, highlighting their potential roles in endurance capacity.