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Physiologic responses to forward and retrograde simulated stair stepping
P T Ryan1, S A Plowman, T E Ball
1Department of Physical Education, Northern Illinois University, De Kalb 60115.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Simulated stair stepping using the StairMaster 4000 PT showed higher heart rates and caloric expenditure when performed backward (retrograde) compared to forward. However, these physiological differences were not practically significant.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
- Sports Science
Background:
- Stair climbing is a common exercise modality.
- Forward and retrograde (backward) stepping may elicit different physiological demands.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the physiological responses to forward and retrograde simulated stair stepping.
- To determine if backward stair stepping increases exercise intensity.
Main Methods:
- Twenty healthy males performed simulated stair stepping on the StairMaster 4000 PT.
- Exercise involved four 3-minute stages at increasing intensity levels (3, 5, 7, 9).
- Physiological measures included heart rate, blood pressure, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and expired gases.
Main Results:
- Retrograde stepping resulted in significantly higher heart rates at higher intensity levels (7 and 9).
- Retrograde stepping showed significantly higher RPE, metabolic equivalents (METS), and caloric expenditure at intensity levels 5, 7, and 9.
- Despite statistical significance, the observed differences between forward and retrograde stepping were not practically meaningful.
Conclusions:
- While retrograde stair stepping elicits higher physiological responses, the differences are minor.
- Forward and retrograde stepping on the StairMaster 4000 PT are comparable in practical terms for exercise intensity.