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Physiologic and perceptual responses during treadmill running with ankle weights.
Y N Bhambhani1, P S Gomes, G Wheeler
1Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|March 1, 1990
Summary
Ankle weights did not significantly alter physiological responses during self-selected treadmill running speeds. However, they increased energy expenditure per mile due to slower speeds, suggesting potential benefits for weight loss if used consistently.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Ankle weighting is explored as a method to increase exercise intensity.
- Previous research often used fixed running speeds, potentially confounding results.
- Understanding responses at self-selected speeds is crucial for practical application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of ankle weights on physiological and perceptual responses during treadmill running at self-selected speeds.
- To compare these effects against previous studies using fixed speeds.
- To assess the potential for ankle weights in enhancing cardiovascular function and weight loss.
Main Methods:
- Seven healthy female recreational runners completed one-mile treadmill runs with varying ankle weights (0, 1.6, 3.2, 4.8 kg).
- Subjects selected their own running speed for each condition, aiming for cardiovascular improvement and weight loss.
- Metabolic, cardiovascular, and perceptual responses were continuously monitored.
Main Results:
- Ankle weights led to a significant decrease in self-selected running speed.
- No significant changes were observed in oxygen consumption, heart rate, or perceived exertion compared to unweighted running.
- Energy expenditure per mile tended to increase due to the reduced speed.
Conclusions:
- At self-selected speeds, ankle weights do not increase the intensity of treadmill running in terms of oxygen consumption or heart rate.
- The increased energy expenditure per mile at slower speeds may have implications for weight management if consistently applied.
- Findings contrast with studies using fixed speeds, highlighting the importance of subject-selected pace in exercise research.