Cycling Sprint - Power output ceiling 23-40sec

[Guest guest]

A number of 50+ masters track riders have related the experience of not being

able to apply more power in a 500m TT after the initial standing start despite

feeling physically able. i.e. Riders will perform a 500m TT on a 250m track.

From a standing start they will be out of the saddle for around 200m then sit

and continue to feel like power is being applied for the next 75 or so metres

(just over one lap) then be unable to apply additional power for the final 220

or so metres. They report that they are 1. Not running out of puff, 2. Not

spinning out, 2. Not grinding - gear doesn't feel too hard; but when they

attempt to apply additional power from about 22s or 23s mark the " mind says go

but the legs don't respond " and can only maintain the current speed and cadence

to the finish. This typically occurs from 22s after the start to the end at

around 40s.

I suspect this is related to the depletion of glycogen levels after the initial

effort but before the pain associated with the build up of " whatever it is that

used to be called lactic acid " has been able to kick in properly. (those of us

lucky enough to have to ride a third lap are fully aware of the discomfort that

builds from about 35 sec to 60s)

What is the likely cause and more importantly what suggestions are there to

reduce this through training?

Phil Bushell Melbourne Australia.