The purpose of this preliminary study is to obtain previous information on the differences in plantar pressures when cyclists use accommodative cushion foot orthoses and the effects of position and different power on plantar pressures. Previous studies (Hennig, Sanderson, 1995; Sanderson, Henning & Black, 2000), claim that there is a pattern of pressure on the insoles for cyclists, where most pressure is exerted on the first metatarsian and hallux (first finger). Methods: 4 cyclists with mean age of 25 years (± 2 years) belonging to UCI professional teams, have been made accommodative cushion foot orthoses. Recordings were made with the Biofoot/IBV, grouping the 64 sensors in 9 zones, recording 6 seconds of constant and stable pedaling at 250 Hz. Cyclists ride on a hill between 6 and 8% slope in sitting position, standing on the pedals, two different powers (2W/kg and 4w/kg), with placebo and study insoles. The power has been controlled by commercial validated powermeter. The statistical treatment used was a repeated measures ANOVA on the values of average and maximum pressure. Results: Significant differences where found in plantar pressure in different positions of sitting and standing (p=0,04) and different powers depending on the area (p=0,00). We also found specific differences (p=0,5) in the distribution of pressure between the study and placebo insoles. Discussion: The effect of position is justified by the distribution of support points, there are 3 points when the subject is seated and 2 when is in standing position, so the weight of the subject that supports the seat rests on the pedals. Results supports Hennig and Sanderson (1995) conclusions, increase of power involve plantar pressures increase. Differences between cushion foot orthoses and placebo insoles, could be that ones are standard manufactured insoles and the others are custom.
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