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In this article we will discuss about the sketch of bicycle ergometer.
Bicycle ergometer is a modified bicycle (Fig. 10.4) specially constructed for carrying out standardised work (exercise) whose wheel is rotated by pedalling without the actual progress of the bicycle in the ground. A brake-band is applied to the front wheel. The work done depends on the rate of pedalling and is determined by the revolution counter attached to the front wheel.
The work done is calculated from the tension difference between the two sides of the bands and the linear velocity of the circumference of the wheel. A metre, calibrated in Kilogram- Metre per minute, is kept above the front of the stationary bicycle for noting the constant work output by the subject.
With the help of the Bicycle Ergometer various physiological changes from a ‘resting level’ to a ‘working level’ can be noted. Heart rate, blood pressure, cardiac output, pulmonary ventilation, oxygen consumption, CO2 output, body temperature, etc., change during physical activity. By measuring these variables during activity it is possible to determine in what degree the ‘working level’ differs from the ‘resting level’.
In the Bicycle Ergometer, mechanical work is imposed on the body. Even after the stoppage of mechanical work, physiological work continues above the ‘resting rate’ till recovery is not complete. A complete ‘work cycle’ indicates the ‘physiological cost of work’ and ‘physiological cost of recovery’.
