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Doctoral Dissertation Defense
of
B. Ryan Davis

For the degree of

Doctor of Philosophy
Exercise Physiology

Metabolic and Hemodynamic Responses of Single Leg Emphasis Cycling Compared to Single and Double Leg Cycling

March 24, 2025
12:00 P.M.
MACC Annex 272
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Via

Metabolic and Hemodynamic Responses of Single Leg Emphasis Cycling Compared to Single and Double Leg Cycling

The first study sought to investigate the metabolic effects of single leg emphasis cycling compared to double and single leg cycling. The second study aimed to evaluate muscle oxygen consumption and blood flow immediately following double leg and single leg cycling across various intensities. 

Study 1: Participants cycled at three intensities using double leg, single leg and single leg emphasis cycling for five minutes. Carbohydrate oxidation, blood flow and rating of perceived exertion were recorded during each exercise session. Carbohydrate oxidation and blood flow were greater during single leg emphasis cycling compared to double leg cycling across all intensities but were mostly lower than single leg cycling. No differences were observed in whole body rating of perceived exertion. 

Study 2: Participants performed double and single leg cycling at three different intensities. A near infrared spectroscopy device was used to evaluate changes in muscle oxygen consumption. Blood flow was recorded immediately following exercise. Changes in muscle oxygen consumption were detected across various intensities and blood flow to the active limb was greater during single leg cycling. 

Findings from the first study support the use of single leg emphasis cycling for individuals who want to increase limb specific metabolic demand while cycling indoors or outside. Results from the second study suggest that near infrared spectroscopy can be used to assess muscle oxygen consumption across various intensities.