Physiological Responses to Speed-Matched Running on Non-Motorized Assault AirRunner versus Traditional Treadmills in...

Treadmills are utilized as a training tool to improve aerobic fitness, but precise understanding of intensity and the corresponding physiological strain is critical for optimizing exercise prescription and associated adaptations. Running on non-motorized, curved treadmills may result in greater oxygen uptake (VO₂), increased heart rate (HR), and increased rating of perceived exertion (RPE) compared to traditional motorized treadmills. The purpose of this study was to investigate the physiological responses on non-motorized versus traditional motorized treadmills during speed-matched running. Participants were 4 college-aged, recreationally active females. HR, VO₂, respiratory exchange ratio (RER), and RPE were monitored during 3 speed-matched stages of incremental exercise in two conditions: the non-motorized Assault AirRunner and a traditional motorized treadmill, as well as for 5 minutes post-exercise. VO₂, RER, and HR were greater in the Assault condition (ES_VO2 = 0.998, ES_RER = 0.839, ES_HR = 0.972, p < 0.05). While not significant between groups, RPE showed a greater increase with increasing speeds in the Assault condition (ES = 0.728), as did RER (ES = 0.800, p < 0.05). Cumulative excess-post exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) during a five-minute period post-exercise was also greater in the Assault condition, and HR and RER remained higher five minutes post-exercise in the Assault condition (ES_EPOC = 0.738, ES_HR = 1.600, ES_RER = 2.075, p < 0.05). The Assault AirRunner elicited greater physiological responses (VO₂, carbohydrate usage, and HR) in response to speed-matched running in comparison to a traditional motorized treadmill in active college-aged females. Collectively, aerobic exercise conducted on the Assault AirRunner has a greater physiological and perceived intensity and need to be taken into consideration when designing and implementing training programs or testing.