Sports medical check for road cyclists - Sports medical test for road cyclists

Once a year, amateur cyclists should have their bodies checked for fitness - especially if they are taking part in competitions. A medical certificate is often mandatory, especially for major cycling events abroad! We have completed a sports medicine check including a lactate test and explain what you need to look out for.

Sports medical check: this is part of it

• Medical history (doctor's consultation)
• Physical examination (listening to the heart, lungs and abdomen, measurement of weight, height and body fat percentage, assessment of the spine, joints and muscle status)
• Resting ECG with blood pressure measurement
• Exercise ECG (usually as a step test on the ergometer or treadmill)
• Laboratory examination (blood count, possibly also urine status)
• Final discussion with counselling

Additional examinations

• Cardiac ultrasound
• Pulmonary function test
• Lactate performance test
• Spiroergometry
• Detailed training counselling and training plan creation

The first step is to find a doctor who offers a sports medical check-up. The German Society for Prevention and Sports Medicine has published a List of recommended sports physicians published. Before visiting the doctor, make sure you find out whether your health insurance will cover the costs. Many health insurance companies now support preventive measures for their policyholders. The following applies to the test itself: arrive rested, avoid strenuous exercise the day before the test so that you are fit and rested for the test. You should also avoid alcohol and fatty foods the evening before. This is also important so that the results are not distorted: Refrain from having breakfast before the blood test, only a glass of water is allowed. To avoid having to take the stress test on an empty stomach, take a snack with you to the practice.

Checklist: What you need to bring with you

• Insurance card
• Referral letter from your family doctor (for sports medicine/cardiology)
• Existing preliminary findings and medical reports
• Medication plan
• Sportswear
• Sports shoes and/or cycling shoes with cleats
• a snack
• Sufficient drinks for half a day
• Shower things