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Intra-stride belt-speed variation affects treadmill locomotion
Savelberg1, Vorstenbosch, Kamman
1Equine Biomechanics Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80157, NL-3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
Gait & Posture
|April 14, 1999
Summary
Treadmill locomotion differs from overground movement because belt speed varies during each stride. These speed variations significantly impact kinematic patterns, depending on treadmill power and subject mass.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human Locomotion
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Mechanical similarity between overground and treadmill locomotion requires constant belt speed.
- Variations in treadmill belt speed during a stride can lead to energy exchange.
- Reported differences in kinematic patterns may stem from treadmill locomotion variability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if intra-stride belt speed varies during treadmill locomotion.
- To investigate if these intra-stride speed variations explain kinematic differences compared to overground locomotion.
Main Methods:
- Nine subjects walked and ran overground.
- Subjects also walked and ran on two treadmills with differing susceptibility to subject forces.
- Kinematic patterns were analyzed in relation to intra-stride belt-speed variations.
Main Results:
- Intra-stride belt-speed variations were found to significantly affect kinematic parameters.
- The degree of intra-stride belt-speed variation was influenced by treadmill power.
- Subject mass also played a role in the amount of intra-stride belt-speed variation.
Conclusions:
- Intra-stride belt-speed variability is a significant factor in treadmill locomotion.
- Kinematic differences between overground and treadmill locomotion can be attributed to these speed variations.
- Treadmill design (power) and user characteristics (mass) influence locomotion variability.