UL Research study – Female Participants required

Subject line: Female Volunteers needed for research study in exercise physiology

We are looking for research participants!

As part of our FYP project, we’re aiming to recruit 14 female subjects to participate in our study entitled “The effect of pedalling rate on exercise intensity in sedentary and trained female cyclists”

What is the purpose of this study?

It has been well demonstrated that during cycling exercise, increasing the pedalling rate (cadence) can increase both physiological (e.g oxygen consumption, heart-rate) and psychological (perceived difficulty of exercise) measurements which are indicative of the intensity of exercise.

However, limited information is available on how pedalling rate influences the response to exercise in female participants. Therefore, we’re looking to measure how both female cyclists and non-cyclists respond to an increased pedalling rate during exercise.

Who are we looking for?

We’re looking for females, aged between 18-28 who have either a minimum of 1 year competitive cycling experience or no regular exposure to cycling exercise (including commute cycling).

What would I be expected to do?

Attend two individual exercise session in a physiology lab in PESS. The first session involves a maximal incremental cycling exercise test, while the second involves two-15 minute bouts of mild cycling exercise at two different pedalling rates.

Are they are any benefits to me participating in this study?

There are no substantial benefits to your participation; however you will receive a laboratory-grade measurement of your fitness level.

Is there any risks to me participating and how are they managed?

In general, the risks are participating in this study are quite low. Although exercise does carry inherent risks of discomfort and injury. All exercise trials will be supervised for the entirety of their duration and you will be regularly asked how you are feeling during each exercise bout. In the unlikely case of an adverse event, established emergency PESS procedures are in place and will be followed.

I’m interested! Where can I learn more?

You can learn more by responding to this email, whereby you’ll receive a more detailed information sheet and we can answer any questions you may have. ciardhamaher@gmail.com

You are also free to contact the principle investigator of this project, Mr. Ian Darragh at ian.darragh@ul.ie