Energy Expenditure In Low-load Resistance Exercise With Slow Movement Using Body Mass Alone As Load

Abstract

PURPOSE: Energy expenditure (EE) and MET values have been reported for many different physical activities and exercises. Resistance exercise using free weights and training machines at 3.5-6.0 METs has been defined as conditioning exercise. However, little research has been conducted on low-load resistance exercise with slow movement, such as squats and push-ups, using body mass alone as load. This study aimed to determine the EE and MET values in low-load resistance exercise using body mass alone as load. METHODS: Sixteen men aged 20-26 years performed 6 resistance exercises in random order, using body mass alone as load. The exercises consisted of squats, single-leg lunges, sit-ups, push-ups, heel raises, and hip lifts. The eccentric and concentric phases of the exercises were completed with 3-second slow movements, performed in 2 sets of 10 repetitions of each exercise. Oxygen consumption (VO2) was continuously measured during exercise, and EE was calculated by applying the VO2 and VCO2 to the Weir equation. We measured resting EE for 30 min before exercise, and 1 MET was calculated by dividing gross oxygen consumption (ml/kg/min) by individual resting EE. RESULTS: The mean EE and MET values for low-load resistance exercise using body mass alone as load were 3.2 0.8 kcal/min and 2.6 0.7 METs, respectively. Squats involved multiple major muscle groups, with the quadriceps showing the highest EE and MET values for 6 exercises, at 4.1 1.0 kcal/min and 3.4 0.4 METs, respectively. Heel raises showed the lowest values of 2.2 0.6 kcal/min and 1.8 03 METs, respectively CONCLUSIONS: The EE and MET values for low-load resistance exercise using body mass alone as load were lower than the values observed during the use of free weights and training machines, and were equivalent to those for low-to-moderate-intensity exercises such as walking in daily life.