Publication Date

5-1-2008

Degree Program

Department of Kinesiology, Recreation and Sport

Degree Type

Master of Science in Physical Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of muscle fatigue after a treadmill versus cycle ergometer incremental test on postural balance indices and recovery time recreationally trained individuals. The Bruce Treadmill Test and the Incremental Cycle Ergometer test were used to induce fatigue. Each subject (N=16) performed both exercises, but the order of the exercises was randomized. The subjects performed balance measures on a Biodex Balance System via the Dynamic Balance Test at level 5 and indices were recorded as given. Balance was measured a total of nine times (pre-exercise, immediately post, and at 3, 6, 9, 12. 15, 18, and 21 minutes post). Immediately following the fatiguing treadmill test, balance increased significantly in the overall stability index (SI) and the anterior/posterior index (API). Immediately following the fatiguing cycle test, balance was not increased or decreased significantly in SI or API. Balance was not increased or decreased significantly for the medial/lateral index (MLI) for either exercise test at any time point. Post-hoc analysis found that the only significant difference (p = 0.05) between treadmill and cycle ergometer test was seen immediately following exercise for only SI and API indices. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the time to recovery, although subjects did tend to recovery quicker following the treadmill test (treadmill = 9 minutes, cycle = 12 minutes, p = 0.731). At 12-minutes post-exercise, all indices were below pre values, indicating fatiguing exercise has a positive effect on balance overtime. The results of this study indicate a general consistency with previous research, suggesting that any effects of fatigue on balance are seen immediately post-exercise and are diminished as time after exercise increases.

Disciplines

Kinesiology | Physiology | Sports Sciences

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