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Date of Graduation
Fall 2009
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Department of Kinesiology
Abstract
Physiological and hemodynamic responses to handrail support during treadmill walking have shown a blunted response when compared to non-handrail support. The effects of treadmill walking, with the inclusion of “heavy” upper limb and torso activation through handrail support is yet unreported. The effect of “heavy” support through side handrail support (SHRS) and front console support (C) versus no handrail support (NHRS) treadmill walking was studied utilizing both slow/low (2.5 mph & 3% elevation) and high/fast (3.5 mph & 11% elevation) energy expenditure levels. Seventeen healthy adults (43.89 +/- 6.07 years) completed trials at both energy expenditure levels incorporating all three handrail support conditions within 1 week, separated by at least 1 day. SBP, DBP, HR, and RPE were measured. SBP was 8.6% and 5.9% lower during C compared to NHRS (p<0.001) and SHRS (p=0.006), respectively, during the fast/high trials. No gender effect was noted. The amount of decrease in each variable was intensity dependent, which may be practically significant when prescribing exercise to a participant who relies on handrail support. Likewise, the removal of handrail support during treadmill walking in the healthy exerciser is no contraindicated.
Recommended Citation
Reid, Kevin Brian, "The effect of heavy handrail support on blood pressure response in normotensive adults during treadmill walking" (2009). Masters Theses, 2010-2019. 299.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/master201019/299
