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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Asymmetric Walkway: A Novel Behavioral Assay for Studying Asymmetric Locomotion
Published on: January 15, 2016
Reproducibility of Cycling Kinetics on an Ergometer Designed to Quantify Asymmetry
Sierra Sweeney1, Shahram Rasoulian1, Atousa Parsaei1
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
This study shows a new cycle ergometer accurately measures limb asymmetry during exercise. The device provides reliable biomechanical feedback for rehabilitation and research settings.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Cycling rehabilitation is used for lower limb asymmetries.
- Existing devices lack detailed biomechanical feedback for asymmetry assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the reproducibility of cycling kinetics and asymmetry measures from a novel cycle ergometer.
- To evaluate the device's ability to analyze asymmetry during fatiguing tasks.
Main Methods:
- Eighteen participants performed incremental and constant-load cycling tests across two sessions.
- The novel ergometer measured 3D pedal forces, handlebar forces, and seat post sway.
- Normalized Symmetry Index (NSI) was calculated, and reproducibility was assessed using ANOVA and ICC.
Main Results:
- No significant session or interaction effects were found for most measures.
- Time effects were noted for pedal force and power during incremental tests.
- NSI values for force and power demonstrated high reproducibility (ICC ≥0.70).
Conclusions:
- The novel cycle ergometer provides reproducible cycling kinetics and asymmetry measures.
- The device is suitable for research and clinical rehabilitation settings for assessing lower limb asymmetry.
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