Differences in Plantar Pressure Loading Variables Between Elliptical Exercise and Treadmill Walking

Abstract

PURPOSE: To determine what differences exist in plantar pressure loading parameters between treadmill and elliptical devices. METHODS: A convenience sample of 30 asymptomatic subjects (18 females, 11 males, mean age 22 ± 2.1 and 23 ± 1.9 years of age, respectively) were recruited. After obtaining informed consent, subjects were fitted with a pair of running shoes and afforded a 5 minute training bout of treadmill walking at 3 mph followed by a 5 minute rest period. The training bout was repeated on an elliptical. A pair of pressure sensing insoles were then inserted into the running shoes and the subject commenced using either the treadmill or the elliptical, the order of which was determined randomly. Plantar pressure data were collected at a rate of 100 Hz for 30 seconds while the subjects used the devices. A 3 minute rest period was then afforded each subject before commencing the second exercise. Data Analysis: The foot was divided into 8 regions, the heel; midfoot; first, second, and lateral metatarsals; hallux; and second and lateral toes and the peak plantar pressure (PPP) and pressure time integral (PTI) determined for each step. The mean PPP and PTI of 10 steps were obtained for the feet of the subjects for each exercise and compared using a 3 factor, fixed effects ANOVA model. RESULTS: A significant effect of exercise and foot region on the mean PPP (See Table) was noted (p <.0001). Regardless of region the elliptical exhibited significantly (p <.0001) less mean PPP than the treadmill. A significant effect of region only (p <.0001) on the mean PTI was noted (See Table) with only the heel having a significantly (p <.0001) different mean PTI. CONCLUSIONS: Elliptical devices appear to generate less mean PPP and similar PTI than treadmill devices.Table 1