PWC-170 Cycle Test
Testing and measurement are the means of collecting information upon which subsequent performance evaluations and decisions are made but in the analysis we need to bear in mind the factors that may influence the results.
Objective
The primary purpose of the PWC170 test is to predict the power output (watts) at a projected heart rate of 170 beats per minute (bpm).
Required Resources
To undertake this test you will require:
- Bicycle ergometer
- Heart rate monitor
- Stop watch
- An assistant
How to conduct the test
The athlete performs two consecutive six minute bicycle ergometer rides in which the workloads are selected to produce a heart rate between 120 and 140 bpm on the first session and 150 and 170 bpm on the second session. For each session, the average Heart Rate (bpm) and Power Output (watts) are recorded.
Analysis
Analysis of the result is by comparing it with the result of previous tests. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement.
Calculations
Use a graph to plot the two points: X axis = Power (Watts) and Y axis = Heat Rate (bpm). Draw a straight line through the two points so that it is extended to 170 bpm. Draw a perpendicular line from the point plotted at a heart rate of 170 bpm to the X axis. Read off the projected power output at this point.
An alternative mathematical approach to determining the power output at 170 bpm is the Polynomial Approximation method.
Example
An athlete produces the following test results:
- Session 1 - average heart rate of 130 bpm at 100 watts (600 kg/minute)
- Session 2 - average heart rate of 153 bpm at 150 watts (900 kg/minute)
Power output = (((P1 × HR2) - (P2 × HR1)) ÷ (HR2 - HR1)) + (170 × ((P1 - P2) ÷ (HR1 - HR2)))
Where:
- P1 = Power (watts) for session 1
- P2 = Power (watts) for session 2
- HR1 = Heart rate for session 1
- HR2 = Heart rate for session 2
Power output = (((100 × 153) - (150 × 130)) ÷ (153-130)) + (170 × ((100-150) ÷ (130-153))
Power output = ((15300 - 19500) ÷ 23) + (170 × (-50 ÷ -23))
Power output = -182.61 + 369.57
Power at 170bpm = 186.96 watts
Target Group
This test is suitable for sprint cyclists and sprinters but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.
Reliability
Reliability would depend upon, how strict the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test.
Validity
There are no published tables to relate results to potential level of fitness.
Free Calculator
- PWC-170 - a free Microsoft Excel spreadsheet that you can download and use on your computer.
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Associated Pages
The following Sports Coach pages should be read in conjunction with this page:
Associated Books
The following books provide more information related to this topic:
- Advanced Studies in Physical Education and Sport, P Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 4482345
- Physical Education and the Study of Sport, B. Davis et al., ISBN 0 7234 31752
- Essentials of Exercise Physiology, W.D. McArdle et al., ISBN 0 683 30507 7
- Physical Education and Sport Studies, D. Roscoe et al., ISBN 1 901424 20 0
- The World of Sport Examined, P. Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 438719 9
- Advanced PE for Edexcel, F. Galligan et al., ISBN 0 435 50643 9
- Examining Physical Education, K. Bizley, ISBN 0 435 50660 9
- Sport and PE, K Wesson et al., ISBN 0 340 683821
- PE for you, J. Honeybourne, ISBN 0 7487 3277 2