Which piece of equipment is a stationary bicycle that measures work performed?

Which piece of equipment is a stationary bicycle that measures work performed?

• A. Plyometrics
• B. Cycle ergometer
• C. Direct gas analysis
• D. Indirect calorimetry

Answer: (B)

A cycle ergometer is used because it’s a stationary bicycle specifically designed to quantify the work a rider does. By applying a known resistance and recording pedal revolutions or crank torque, it allows calculation of mechanical work and power output (work relates to force and distance, and on a bike this translates to torque and angular movement). This is distinct from plyometrics, which is a type of explosive training, and from methods like direct gas analysis or indirect calorimetry, which measure energy use from gas exchange rather than the actual mechanical work performed on the bike.

A cycle ergometer is used because it’s a stationary bicycle specifically designed to quantify the work a rider does. By applying a known resistance and recording pedal revolutions or crank torque, it allows calculation of mechanical work and power output (work relates to force and distance, and on a bike this translates to torque and angular movement). This is distinct from plyometrics, which is a type of explosive training, and from methods like direct gas analysis or indirect calorimetry, which measure energy use from gas exchange rather than the actual mechanical work performed on the bike.