Effect of new type of compression garments on sub-maximal and maximal cycling performance in the heat (32 °C)

This study investigated the effect of compression garments (X) on cycling performance in the heat (32 °C) and tested the hypothesis that X would not negatively affect cycling performance in the heat by comparing X and traditional cycling garments (C). Seven amateur cyclists and triathletes performed an incremental test followed by 20 min cycling performance test at a power that elicited the subject’s pre-determined 80 % of ventilator threshold and then a time to exhaustion (TTE) at VO2max power (PPO) for both X condition and C condition (randomized). Oxygen uptake (VO2) and heart rate were collected during steady state of sub-maximal intensity, TTE was taken at the end of maximal aerobic intensity and rating of perceived exertion, thermal and sweating sensation were provided every 5 min during the test. All parameters were compared between X and C; no significant differences (p < 0.05) were found, so the initial hypothesis was confirmed.