Analyzing pedaling dynamics to improve cycling performance

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Power meters have revolutionized training for both professional and recreational cyclists. However, most systems just provide a single power value and do not permit the separate analysis of each leg. Furthermore, this basic summation does not provide detailed information on how force is applied throughout the pedal stroke. The Garmin Vector bicycle power meter, developed by Dynastream Innovations Inc. (Dynastream) based in Cochrane, AB, is unique in the power meter market by building separate power meters into each pedal. In addition to the traditional power analyses possible with other power meters, this pedal-based design opens up a new frontier of real-time analysis of the pedal stroke. These new possibilities include the analysis of force transmission from each leg throughout the entire pedal stroke, detailed information on the forces from each leg independently, and pedaling force differences between legs. The emerging challenge lies in understanding the potential of these analyses to advance training. To take full advantage of this system, it is important to first better understand how cyclists apply force while riding in various cycling scenarios. This will provide a basis from which we can design better analysis and metrics for future product development.