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Purpose

To investigate the effects of feedback, in the form of a virtual avatar paced at 100 and 102% of baseline performance, on neuromuscular fatigue following a 4 km cycling time trial (TT). We hypothesised that improved cycling performance would occur due to participants exceeding a previously established critical threshold, and experiencing greater neuromuscular fatigue.

Methods

Following familiarisation, ten well-trained cyclists performed a baseline 4 km TT without feedback (BASE), followed by two, 4 km TT where they raced against an avatar (set at 100%[accurate-ACC] and 102%[deception-DEC] of baseline power output), in a randomised and counterbalanced order. Before and after each TT, neuromuscular fatigue was assessed using maximal isometric voluntary contractions (MVC) of the quadriceps, and supramaximal electrical stimulation of the femoral nerve, during and 2 s after MVCs to assess …