Walking. A method for rapid improvement of physical fitness

This study examined the efficiency of walking with a backpack load as a method for improving physical fitness. Forty-four subjects (average age, 18.8 years) marched at a speed of 5 km/hr for 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Thirty-two subjects walked for 3 weeks with a 3-kg backpack load; 6 subjects marched for 4 weeks with the same load; 6 subjects marched for 3 weeks with a 3-kg load, and with a 6-kg load during the fourth week. A statistically significant increase in aerobic work capacity (VO2max) was observed in all three groups, but was most pronounced in the last group.