Ground Reaction Forces in Nordic Walking and Walking

Thorwesten L, Overhaus N, Völker K

Research article in edited proceedings (conference)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Nordic Walking as an established endurance sports showed a highercardiovascular load compared to normal walking caused by the additional use of poles (Buttset al. 1995; Rodgers et al. 1995; Jordan et al. 2001). There is still a lack of knowledgeregarding the joint load. A reduction up to 30% based on the use of poles is often describedbut the evidence is missing. The objective of the given study was to examine the load onlower limbs using biomechanical parameters comparing walking [W] and nordic walking[NW]. METHOD: Twenty volunteers (informed consent) participated in this experimental crosssectionalstudy. Vertical ground reaction forces where measured during walking and nordicwalking using an insole plantar pressure distribution system (Fa. GeBiom, Münster Germany) A measuring frequency of 200 Hz with a resolution up to 64 sensors (depending of insolesize) was used. In addition 3 sensors are mounted to the poles during the nordic walkingcondition. 16 female and 4 male well trained nordic walker (age: 49,7 ±12,0 years; height:1,69 ±0,09 m; weight: 70,8 ±16,1 kg) where tested in a randomised order on a treadmill(Woodway) at three given walking speeds (5,5 km/h [A]; 6,5 km/h [B] and 7,5 km/h [C]) inwalking and nordic walking respectively. RESULTS: The results showed no significant differences regarding the maximum verticalGRFz (A=1,66(W) and 1,72(NW); B=1,70(W) and1,71(NW); C:1,73(W) and 1,76(NW) ofbodyweight) as well as no significant changes in the initial increase of forces. Contact time islonger for Nordic Walking on each given walking speed (p<0.05). The impulse values arehigher for the Nordic walking condition. DISCUSSION / CONCLUSION: In opposition to the frequently stated reduction of lower limbloading by the use of walking poles, the given results showed no reduction in all measuredparameters. Longer contact time as well as higher impulse values compared to the walkingcondition indicated a more dynamic movement in nordic walking. This leads finally to ahigher cardiovascular and metabolic load in contrast to walking. The recommendation ofNordic walking as a rehabilitation training concept for orthopaedic patients should beconsidered again (Brunelle et al 1998).

Details zur Publikation

Publisher: Schwameder H, Strutzenberger G, Fastenbauer V, Lindinger S, Müller E
Book title: Proceedings
Release year: 2006
Publishing company: University of Salzburg
Language in which the publication is written: English
Event: Salzburg
Link to the full text: https://ojs.ub.uni-konstanz.de/cpa/article/view/289