Energy Expenditure

Abstract

1718 The elliptical trainer (ET) is a relatively new exercise device that is gaining popularity. Despite popularity, the ET has received little research attention, especially in comparison to other modalities. The purpose of this study was to compare physiological responses during ET and treadmill (TM) exercise at three intensities gauged using RPE. Twenty-four physically active males (n = 12) and females (n = 12) completed maximal and submaximal exercise sessions on both modalities. Maximal tests were used to obtain mode specific VO2max, HRmax and RPEmax. The submaximal exercise sessions, which followed 48 h after maximal testing, consisted of three 6-min exercise bouts at RPE-gauged intensities of 11 (fairly light), 13 (somewhat hard) and 15 (hard) on each modality. Each subject's RPE intensity order was pre-assigned in a partially randomized, balanced order. Three 2 × 2 ANOVAs comparing mode and gender for the dependent variables VO2max, HRmax, and RPEmax showed TM elicited a greater VO2max and HRmax than ET (p < 0.05). Submaximal exercise data were analyzed using 2 × 2 × 3 ANOVAs comparing mode, gender and RPE intensity level and revealed TM elicited greater submaximal VO2, HR and energy expenditure (EE) across the three RPE-gauged intensities (p < 0.05). There were no modality-related gender differences observed. The results of this study demonstrated that TM produces greater EE than ET with less strain or feeling of exertion. Movement patterns associated with ET may elicit localized leg fatigue that affects perception of intensity thereby leading to lower EE at a given RPE. Despite EE differences, ET provides a respectable, low-impact exercise alternative to TM running. If maximizing EE with the lowest perception of effort is the goal, however, then TM is the recommended modality. Exercise prescriptions using RPE should consider this information when switching between modalities.