A Systematic Review of Bicycle Motocross: Influence of Physiological, Biomechanical, Physical, and Psychological Indicators on Sport Performance

TL;DR

This systematic review explores factors like physiology, biomechanics, and psychology that influence performance in BMX cycling.

Contribution

This is the first systematic review analyzing performance indicators in BMX, offering new insights and recommendations for researchers and trainers.

Findings

BMX performance is influenced by physiological factors like Pmax and anaerobic-aerobic relationships.

Physical characteristics such as power, speed, and sprint are crucial for BMX performance.

Psychological variables and cognitive training significantly impact BMX performance.

Abstract

Background: This sport involves the integration of various capabilities and mechanisms, including cognitive, physiological, and biomechanical components, that allow the athlete to perform in competition. However, to date, no systematic review has analyzed the indicators that are decisive for sports performance in Bicycle Motocross (BMX). The objective of this work was to carry out a systematic review of the performance variables in BMX and establish recommendations for researchers and trainers. Materials and Methods: The following databases were consulted: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. This systematic review uses the guidelines of the PRISMA statement and the guidelines for performing systematic reviews in sports sciences. The search approach, along with the selection criteria and additional details, were previously noted in the prospective registry (INPLASY202480036). The quality of the evidence was evaluated via the PEDro scale. Results: The 21 studies that make up the sample of this systematic review have a total sample of 287 athletes. However, in the studies analyzed, there are five main categories for the study of performance in BMX: (i) physiological profile and BMX and bicarbonate; (ii) BMX and physical characteristics (power, speed, and sprint); (iii) translation and rotational acceleration and systems and implements; (iv) psychological variables; and (v) skills and techniques. Conclusions: This systematic review provides convincing evidence regarding the influence of several factors that can determine performance in BMX, including Pmax, cadence, neuromuscular capacity, feedback and cognitive training, accelerometry and video analysis, anaerobic–aerobic relationships, physical conditioning, strength, and speed.

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