About
PhD Title: Optimisation of force application and production in cycling
Supervisors: Dr François-Xavier Li
Xavier is a former rower competing for Oxford University, and is a keen cyclist who competes at national level on the track and outdoor in time trials, having won multiple medals at the British University and Colleges Sports championship events.
Qualifications
BA (Oxon), MSc (Portsmouth)
Biography
After completing an undergraduate degree at the University of Oxford, Xavier worked with a UK Sport funded program at the University of Portsmouth looking at thermoregulation of athletes in hot and humid conditions. His MSc in Sports Performance at Portsmouth the following year explored the effect of manipulating crank arms and pedal location on oxygen uptake and sprint ability in trained cyclists. In 2009 he began his PhD at Birmingham, exploring the pedaling mechanics and kinematics of cyclists.
Research
Research group: Motor Control Group
Biomechanics, cycling, performance
Other activities
Xavier is involved with the coaching and performance analysis of the University of Birmingham Cycling Club, who are currently the West Midland time trial champions and national University champions for 2009-2011 on the track. He is also a member of a group that provides coaching services to international and professional cyclists.
Publications
Disley, B. X., Li, F.-X., (in press). The Effect of Q Factor on cycling performance.