Development and validation of dynamic bioenergetic model for intermittent ergometer cycling

Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop and validate a bioenergetic model describing the dynamic behavior of the alactic, lactic, and aerobic metabolic energy supply systems as well as different sources of the total metabolic energy demand.

Methods: The bioenergetic supply model consisted of terms for the alactic, lactic, and aerobic system metabolic rates while the demand model consisted of terms for the corresponding metabolic rates of principal cycling work, pulmonary ventilation, and accumulated metabolites. The bioenergetic model was formulated as a system of differential equations and model parameters were estimated by a non-linear grey-box approach, utilizing power output and aerobic metabolic rate (MR_ae) data from fourteen cyclists performing an experimental trial (P2) on a cycle ergometer. Validity was assessed by comparing model simulation and measurements on a similar follow-up experimental trial (P3).

Results: The root mean square error between modelled and measured MR_ae was 61.9 ± 7.9 W and 79.2 ± 30.5 W for P2 and P3, respectively. The corresponding mean absolute percentage error was 8.6 ± 1.5% and 10.6 ± 3.3% for P2 and P3, respectively.

Conclusion: The validation of the model showed excellent overall agreement between measured and modeled MR_ae during intermittent cycling by well-trained male cyclist. However, the standard deviation was 38.5% of the average root mean square error for P3, indicating not as good reliability.