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Analysis of ground reaction forces in step exercise depending on step pattern and stepping rate
Rita Santos-Rocha1, António Veloso, Maria Lourdes Machado
1Sport Sciences School of Rio Maior, Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, Santarém, Portugal. rsantos@esdrm.pt
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|December 4, 2008
Summary
Experienced women can manage increased step exercise intensity by adjusting stepping rate, maintaining safe ground reaction force (GRF) levels comparable to walking and moderate running. This control allows step exercise integration into fitness and rehabilitation programs.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Ground reaction forces (GRFs) quantify musculoskeletal loading during locomotion.
- GRFs indicate whole-body biomechanical intensity and enable activity comparisons.
Purpose of the Study:
- Analyze GRFs (force profile, average, peak, impulse, loading rate) in step exercise.
- Investigate differences across stepping rates and step patterns in skilled women.
- Determine the impact of cadence on external lower-extremity loading.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two force platforms to measure GRFs.
- Employed repeated measures analyses of variance for statistical analysis.
- Recruited 18 skilled women participants.
Main Results:
- Experienced subjects maintained safe GRF levels despite increased stepping cadence.
- GRF values were comparable to those in quick walking and moderate step running.
- Stepping rate effectively controls external lower-extremity loading.
Conclusions:
- Step exercise allows for mechanical control of external loading through adjustable stepping rates.
- This controlled loading makes step exercise suitable for exercise and rehabilitation programs.
- Understanding GRF magnitude guides the selection of appropriate stepping rates and movements.
