Mental Workload in Ultra-Distance Cycling

Abstract

Changes in mental workload are well understood in activities such as driving, however, very little is known about the changes in mental workload in ultra-distance cycling. Using a mixed methods, emergent research approach, mental workload in ultra-distance cycling was explored through four studies. Mental workload was inferred objectively through triangulation of changes in theta power, heart rate variability (HRV), the results of a psychomotor vigilance test (PVT), and subjectively using the NASA-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) and semi-structured interviews. In Study 1, mental workload was compared pre and post an indoor and outdoor bicycle ride both of five hours duration. No significant differences were found in theta power. A significant difference was found in the slowest 10 % responses in the PVT scores for the indoor ride, and the average and median PVT responses in the outdoor ride. A significant decrease in HRV was recorded but attributed to exercise rather than a change in mental workload. The NASA-TLX indicated a greater perception of mental demand in the indoor ride compared to the outdoor ride. Study 2 confirmed the sensitivity of the equipment used for measuring mental workload in Study 1. Significant differences were found in theta power and HRV during a Stroop test, when compared with pre and post test measures. The NASA-TLX scores indicated that the Stroop test was perceived as mentally demanding; however, no significant differences were found in the measured variables pre and post the Stroop test. Study 3 demonstrated that the standard protocols for measuring heart rate variability involving paced breathing at 0.1 Hz (as used in Studies 1 and 2) resulted in a significant decrease in theta power and an increase in HRV following completion of a Stroop test and, further, that fitness did not
significantly impact these results. Study 4 contextualised the results of Studies 1, 2 and 3 by examining the perception of mental workload both within an ultra-distance event or race and in the training and preparation for these. Provided participation in an ultra-distance race or event is completed without mishap, injury or sleep deprivation, well trained, adequately fuelled and hydrated cyclists experience little change in mental workload when compared to a rested state. This is because ultra-distance athletes expend considerable effort planning and developing routines and habits, the consequence of which is to minimise changes in mental workload arising as a function of the ultra-distance race or event.

Date of Award	18 Oct 2023
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Winchester
Supervisor	Simon Jobson (Supervisor) & John-Paul Wilson (Supervisor)