Author and graduation date: Angela J. STAVIG, October, 1998

Committee members: Michael Buono (Chair), Peter Francis, Paul Kolen

Thesis title: Physiological Response During A Typical Reebok Cycling Exercise Class

The studio cycle class is modeled after real road bike workouts. The typical class is led by an instructor incorporating the use of visualization techniques and various intensity work bouts during a 40-60 minute class. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the physiological responses to this popular new exercise mode. Fourteen healthy adults were recruited to complete two test: a 39-minute choreographed and video taped workout on the Reebok Studio Cycle, and a maximal effort incremental exercise test on the Monark Cycle Ergometer. Continuous open circuit spirometry and heart rate monitoring were used to collect data throughout the duration of both tests. The results confirmed that the studio cycle workout successfully elicited cardiorespiratory responses and energy expenditure to meet current American College of Sports Medicine recommendations for achievement of desirable cardiorespiratory adaptation and weight management, in a group of healthy adults. It was also determined that despite the variability in the intensity of minute to minute work bouts, the physiological profile of the studio cycling workout represented the qualities of a continuous exercise bout rather than that of interval training regimens.

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