Relationship Between Half Squat Load–Velocity Profile and Cycling Power Profile in Masters-Level Cyclists

Background: Cycling performance depends on both aerobic capacity and neuromuscular function, with recent training approaches emphasizing the role of strength training. However, the extent to which neuromuscular characteristics assessed in conventional strength exercises transfer to cycling performance remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between the Load–Velocity (L-V) profile obtained from a multi-joint strength exercise (half squat) and the cycling Power Profile (PP) in Masters-level cyclists. Methods: Twelve masters-level cyclists were evaluated by the L-V and the PP test. The cycling PP was determined through maximal efforts of 1, 5, and 20 min, expressed relative to body mass (W·kg⁻¹). The L-V profile was assessed during the half squat using a progressive loading protocol with load–velocity monitoring. Pearson’s correlation analyses were performed between the slope and intercept of the L-V profile relationship and PP variables, as well as mean ascent velocity (VAM). Results: No significant relationships were observed between L-V profile variables and cycling performance (r = −0.21 to 0.09, p > 0.05). In contrast, VAM showed very large associations with P1 (r = 0.81, p = 0.001) and P5 (r = 0.86, p < 0.001). The regression model explained a large proportion of the variance in VAM (R² = 0.75, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Strength performance assessed through a conventional exercise such as the half squat is not directly related to cycling PP in masters-level cyclists. The observed relationships between VAM and cycling PP reinforce the importance of task specificity.