CRP index: an integral measure of special physical fitness in road cyclists

Aim. This study aims to develop a valid method for assessing the special physical fitness of road cyclists in order to enable an objective comparison of their competitiveness irrespective of race conditions. Materials and methods. Over 4,500 performance results of Russian and international male and female cyclists from the period 2018–2024 were analyzed, with the simultaneous recording of significant race conditions. The calculation method was justified using mathematical modeling. Relationships between relevant parameters of the external and internal aspects of physical load were determined by additionally incorporating data from functional testing of 56 athletes of both sexes on a cycling ergometer, including spirometry, gas analysis, and blood lactate monitoring. Results. An innovative method to calculate the integral special physical fitness rating indicator for road cyclists – the CRP (Cycling Rating Points) index – was developed based on three key parameters: race distance, difficulty, and finishing time. Conclusion. The proposed approach objectivizes the comparison of cyclists’ physical fitness levels, enhances the accuracy of monitoring their athletic form, and improves the efficacy of training process management. The scientific validity of the CRP index is confirmed by its high correlations with mean speed over the distance, pedaling power, and the rate of oxygen consumption.