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The metabolic transition speed between backward walking and running
Elmarie Terblanche1, Werner A Cloete, Pieter A L du Plessis
1Department of Medical Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, PO Box 19063, 7505, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa. et2@sun.ac.za
European Journal of Applied Physiology
|August 5, 2003
Summary
The metabolic transition speed for backward walking versus running was determined to be between 6 and 7 km/h. This speed is lower than that observed for forward locomotion, indicating different metabolic efficiencies.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- The metabolic transition speed from walking to running is established for forward locomotion.
- This transition speed for backward locomotion remains uninvestigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the speed at which backward running becomes metabolically more efficient than backward walking.
- To compare the backward walk-run transition speed with that of forward locomotion.
Main Methods:
- Eighteen healthy volunteers performed randomized backward walking and running tests on a treadmill.
- Incremental speed protocols (5-8 km/h, 0.5 km/h increments) were used, with continuous cardiorespiratory monitoring.
- Blood lactate concentration and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in oxygen consumption, ventilation, or heart rate were found between backward walking and running at speeds of 6-7 km/h.
- No significant difference in blood lactate was observed between backward walking and running at 7.5 km/h.
- Backward running below 6 km/h was rated as more difficult than backward walking.
Conclusions:
- The metabolic transition speed for backward locomotion is between 6 and 7 km/h.
- This backward transition speed is lower than the established 7.2-7.9 km/h for forward locomotion.
- These findings suggest different metabolic efficiencies between forward and backward exercise modes.