The effects on riding performance using active vs passive recovery during a simulated motocross race

Aleix Ollé Casanovas. 2017. The effects on riding performance using active vs passive recovery during a simulated motocross race. University of Jyväskylä. 53p. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of active and passive recovery methods in order to improve physical performance between motocross races. Exercise induced muscle damage post motocross racing was assessed as well. Participants performed 2 races of 30 minutes with one hour break in between. During the break they performed either active or passive recovery protocols. Specific motocross performance outcomes and athlete’s physical conditions were measured during, and before and after every motocross race. Lap times (LT) and heart rate (HR) were recorded during racing, and strength and power tests such as handgrip strength (HS), upper back pull (UBP), counter movement jump (CMJ) and medicine ball throw (BT) were performed pre and post racing. Metabolic demands and reaction time were evaluated pre and post race as well via blood lactate (BL) concentration, and a visual stimulus reaction time test (RT). Creatine kinase (CK) and strength test were assessed 24h after exercise bout. No significant differences (p>0.8) in laptimes, and in force and power production (CMJ p>0.1; UBP p>0.5; HS p>0.2; BT p>0.8) were found, after using active or passive recovery in between races. A significant drop in HS was found when comparing pre and post race values (HS p<0.0001). RT was not affected by any of the recovery protocols but it tended to improve at every trial. 24 h post racing, baseline strength values were not recovered, and CK values were above resting levels. The results of this study do not support the use of active recovery in between races when it comes to restoration of performance values. Motocross racing seem to cause some degree of exercise-induced muscle damage.