| dc.description.abstract | This study determined potential changes in upper body
muscular strength and endurance as a result of walking with
the use of specially designed walking poles (Exerstriders).
Ninety-two inactive females, 20-49 yrs, volunteered to
participate in the study. Ss were randomly assigned to one
of three groups: Exerstriders (E), who walked using the
Exerstriders; Walkers (W), who participated in a
conventional walking program; and Controls (C). E and W
participated in a supervised 12-week walking program,
exercising 4 days per week, for 20-45 min per session, at
70-85% of maximal HR. Ss were assessed for upper body
muscular strength and endurance before and after training.
Strength (lb) was assessed using 1-RM tests for triceps
pushdown and a modified lateral pulldown exercise. To
assess muscular endurance, Ss performed a 1 min bout of
alternating arm pulls on a modified Biokinetic Swim Bench
apparatus. Total work output (kpm) was used as the
criterion measure. Changes in muscular strength and
endurance were analyzed with repeated measures ANOVA and
Tukeyls post-hoc tests. E had sig (pc.01) increase (37%) in
muscular endurance from pre to posttesting, which was
greater than the non sig (p>.01) increases shown by W (14%)
and C (5%). There were no sig (p>.Ol) changes in pushdown
or pulldown strength in any group. It would appear that
although Exerstriding can result in substantial increases in
muscular endurance, it may not provide sufficient stimulus
to increase strength. A longer training period may be
needed to alter this parameter. | en |
