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Cardiorespiratory and metabolic responses during forward and backward walking
E C Chaloupka1, J Kang, M A Mastrangelo
1Department of Health and Exercise Science, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028-1756, USA.
Summary
Backward treadmill walking, especially on an incline, significantly increases cardiorespiratory and metabolic responses compared to forward walking. This method may effectively maintain cardiorespiratory fitness during rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Backward treadmill walking is utilized in lower extremity injury rehabilitation.
- Maintaining cardiorespiratory fitness during rehabilitation is a clinical concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the cardiorespiratory and metabolic demands of backward versus forward walking.
- To investigate the previously unreported metabolic cost of backward incline walking.
Main Methods:
- Seventeen healthy volunteers completed four randomized 6-minute submaximal walking trials.
- Trials included forward and backward walking at 0% and 5% incline.
- Measurements included oxygen uptake, ventilation, heart rate, and perceived exertion.
Main Results:
- Backward walking at any given incline induced higher cardiorespiratory, metabolic, and perceptual responses than forward walking.
- Backward walking at a 5% incline demonstrated a significant physiological stimulus.
Conclusions:
- Backward walking, particularly on an incline, imposes greater physiological stress than forward walking.
- Backward walking at 5% incline is a viable option for maintaining cardiorespiratory fitness during rehabilitation.