Laboratory Analysis of Backpack Design and Walking Gradient Effects on Gait Kinetics and Kinematics

Timothy Grigg ¹, Natalia Kabaliuk ², Sibi Walter ¹

⁰Faculty of Health, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand.

Sports (basel, Switzerland) +

|

October 28, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

A balance backpack (BBP) significantly reduces lumbar extension (LE) and centre of pressure (COP) compared to a traditional backpack (TBP). Hikers using a BBP may experience a gait closer to unloaded walking.

Area Of Science

Biomechanics
Kinesiology
Orthopedics

Background

Hikers carry heavy backpacks during trekking, potentially affecting gait.
Backpack design is a critical factor influencing hiker biomechanics.

Purpose Of The Study

To evaluate how different backpack designs impact lumbar extension (LE) and centre of pressure (COP) during walking.
To compare the effects of a traditional backpack (TBP) versus a balance backpack (BBP) on gait parameters.

Main Methods

Eight participants walked on a treadmill with varying gradients (flat, incline, decline) under three conditions: no backpack (NBP), TBP, and BBP.
Motion capture and force plate data were collected to analyze LE and COP.
Statistical analysis, including Dunnett's post hoc test, identified significant differences.

Main Results

The balance backpack (BBP) resulted in statistically significant reductions in LE and COP compared to the traditional backpack (TBP) across all tested gradients (p < 0.05).
Observed differences in LE and COP were minimized with the BBP.

Conclusions

The BBP's anterior-posterior loading system effectively mimics the gait pattern of unloaded walking.
Hikers using a BBP may achieve a more natural gait compared to those using a TBP, potentially reducing strain.

Keywords:

gait analysis lumbar postural balance walking