Bilateral deficit during short-term, high-intensity cycle ergometry in girls and boys

Peak torque during an isokinetic bilateral knee extension or flexion is usu ally lower than the summed peak torque of two unilateral contractions, and this phenomenon is designated as bilateral deficit (BD). The objectives of this study were to determine whether a ED also exists for more complex, alt ernating movements (e.g., short-term. high-intensity cycling), and to asses s the possible effects of gender and maturity. Forty children and adolescen ts performed two unilateral (ULWAnT) and one bilateral Wingate anaerobic te st (BLWAnT). The highest power reached in any 3-s interval (peak power: PP) , and the total mechanical work (TMW) performed during the test was determi ned. Individual ED for PP (BDPP, %) was calculated by dividing the PP in th e BLWAnT by the sum of the PP values of both ULWAnTs. The ED for TMW (BDTMW ) was calculated in the same way. The sum of PP generated during the two UL WAnTs was larger than the PP measured in the BLWAnT (P<0.000001). The same difference was observed for TMW (P<0.0001). Maturity did not affect the BDP P or BDTMW (P=0.34). However, the BD was more pronounced in females compare d to males (P=0.03). In conclusion, a ED is evident during cycling exercise .