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Energy expenditure during submaximal walking with Exerstriders
C D Rodgers1, J L VanHeest, C L Schachter
1Department of Physical Education and Exercise Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824-1049, USA.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|April 1, 1995
Summary
Exerstriding, a walking technique using poles, significantly increases cardiorespiratory response and calorie expenditure compared to regular walking. This enhanced physical activity may improve body composition and aerobic capacity.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Walking is a popular physical activity for health improvement.
- Methods to augment the cardiorespiratory and metabolic demands of walking are of interest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if Exerstriding (walking with poles) enhances cardiorespiratory response and energy expenditure compared to unassisted walking.
Main Methods:
- Female subjects walked on a treadmill for 30 minutes at 6.7 km/h and 0% grade.
- Two conditions were tested: walking with Exerstriders (E) and without (Control, C).
- Cardiorespiratory responses (oxygen consumption, heart rate, RER) and caloric expenditure were measured.
Main Results:
- Oxygen consumption, heart rate, and respiratory exchange ratio were significantly higher during Exerstriding.
- Total caloric expenditure was significantly greater with Exerstriding (173.7 kcal) versus control (140.7 kcal).
- Rating of perceived exertion did not significantly differ between conditions.
Conclusions:
- Exerstriding effectively increases caloric expenditure during submaximal walking.
- This method offers a way to enhance the health benefits of walking, such as improved body composition and aerobic capacity.