The Design And Development Of A Novel Aerobic And Anaerobic Training And Rehabilitation System

Abstract

A gap exists in the healthcare market for a novel training system. The healthcare market is taken to cover the sports training, physiotherapy, rehabilitation and research (university/hospital) domains. The results of the research and development of this novel machine at Loughborough University, UK are presented in this paper. The machine has the capability of enabling (i) increased sports performance, (ii) safer training methods/injury prevention, (iii) better/faster rehabilitation and (iv) accommodation of variability between users. PURPOSE The aim of this research was to develop cost effective, computer controlled modular machine that is capable of enabling the user to train in all of the three main resistance training modes (e.g. isometric, isotonic, isokinetic) with the additional functionality of active variable resistance via the control of torque profiles within the exercise region of movement at variable speeds as demanded by the sports specific exercise requirements. METHODS Advanced controls and monitoring software and hardware have been utilised to enable the generation of torque controlled resistance to movement. The system has been designed to provide the ability to control (i) the variation in velocity (ii) the torque profile, (iii) the limitation of peak forces/torques, (iv) ease of use and (v) automatic generation of individual user profiles. RESULTS The computer controlled and monitoring system has undergone extensive functional testing and user trials. A performance envelope of linear response in both torque and speed capabilities of 600 Nm and 500 degrees/second respectively have been achieved. Isokinetic calibration of the user ensures an accurate (<0.1%) determination of the 1RM capability of the individual for both concentric and eccentric training within an appropriate speed interval. Simple reconfiguration of the system hardware and software enables the control and monitoring of aerobic exercise (e.g. bicycle, rowing machine, treadmill) profiles with the same accuracy (<0.1%) from speed and torque perspectives. CONCLUSIONS The development of a novel, modular, computer controlled total exercise machine enables the generation of accurate torque and speed profiles for sports specific and rehabilitation training. User calibration ensures that the user exercises within a safe training environment and accurate monitoring of the performance data provide the trainer and/or physician with valuable performance data. Internet compatibility of the machine monitoring software ensures that performance data are available whether the user exercising locally (i.e. in the hospital or the gym) or remotely (i.e. at home).