Laboratory Testing

In accordance with our partnership with South Bank's Human Performance Centre we also provide our cyclists with the opportunity to undergo a variety of scientific tests, which will give us all the information needed in order to structure a training plan that will be highly optimized, based on heart rate and power output results. These will be carried out by South Bank University and data will be analyzed by us. The full testing protocol includes lung function, body fat and body composition, baseline blood tests, oxygen consumption and lactate thresholds.

Initial feedback will be given on the day. A full written report, with training suggestions will follow approximately one week later. The full testing procedure will take approximately 4 hours.

Lung Function

Peak flow and forced vital capacity measures give an accurate assessment of lung function which is critical to underpinning the aerobic capacity and identifying potential obstructions.

Body Composition

We measure height, weight, and a sum of skin folds to ascertain body fat percentage. The rider's power to weight ratio is very important to cycling in varied terrain and excess fat is a big disadvantage particularly when climbing. This test will give a quantitative measure of your potential with the aid of a carefully planned diet and training regime.

Baseline Bloods

A tiny pinprick blood sample ascertains health status in terms of haemoglobin level (critical for oxygen carrying capacity) and haemocrit an indicator of hydration status. These figures will shed more light upon your genetic disposition towards endurance exercise.

Lactate Threshold

A highly specific cycling test, performed on the rider's own bike, measures peak oxygen consumption and maximal heart rate. A 5 to 6-stage process involving steadily increased workload over 20 to 30 minutes. Blood lactate measurement allows for pinpoint determination of training heart rates and training loads. Peak values are reached in a final 4 minute maximal work effort. Lactate Threshold Verification Checks the level attained during the lactate profile. This is an important verification which ensures that training heart rates and workloads are fine-tuned.