Cycling and Energy Expenditure

Cycling is one of the most efficient means to lose weight, especially for those whose knees are no longer up to jogging or long walks

There are many cycling Calorie expenditure calculators on the web. I wasn't happy with what I found, so I did a search of the scientific literature and reputable websites, and produced a comparison of 9 methods.

Some are based on the physics of interacting resistances, while others are estimates of O2 consumption (via its correlation with heart rate).

For the latter, you first need to know your VO2max. This can be estimated reasonably accurately by doing the Rockport Fitness Walking Test, or less so by either the YMCA or Queens College Step Tests. The protocol and calculations for each are in the spreadsheet.

For further explanations, see the Introduction within the spreadsheet.  By the way, don't let the esoteric data input fields spook you. Things like frontal area, rolling resistance, and wind resistance need not be adjusted. If you want to, highlighting each input cell will produce a comment box that explains appropriate inputs.

Download here  CyclingEnergyExpenditure   110KB


Screen shot below.

Cheers
Bruce