The Effect of Cycling Fatigue on Center of Pressure Alteration and Plantar Pressure Distribution during Running in Novice Triathletes

Success depends largely on the triathlete’s ability to run at maximum efficiency, not adversely influenced by previous cycling. Changing pattern of running can cause injuries to the lower extremities, particularly the ankle and metatarsus. The purpose of this study was investigation the effect of cycling fatigue on central of pressure alteration and plantar pressure distribution during running in novice triathletes. Twelve male subjects (age: 24.5±2.27 years, weight: 75.8±4.61 kg, height: 178.6±6.46 cm) were selected and participated in this quasi experimental study. Twelve-steps cycling protocol were used to induce fatigue with different intensity on the bicycle ergometer. Center of pressure alteration and plantar pressure distribution by Footscan were assessed in before and after cycling fatigue during various phases of running. Plantar pressure distribution results showed that the maximum pressure in the areas of the heel medial, metatarsals 1,2,3,4 were significantly increased and in the area of the midfoot was significantly decreased after the fatigue protocol. Also, the results of the center of pressure alteration showed that the amount of supination in the heel contact phase was significantly decreased and the amount of pronation in the mid-stance phase was significantly increased after the fatigue protocol. The results of this study showed that fatigue cycling can increase plantar pressure and disorder in the deviation of the center of pressure. The results of this study concluded that fatigue cycling can cause injury and instability of the ankle and foot joints. It is suggested that novice triathletes strengthening your Inversion muscles, especially the tibialis anterior muscle.