The Effects Of Bench Height And Step Cadence In Aerobic Step Dance On Force Impact And Metabolic Cost

The purpose of this investigation was threefold: to (1) determine the acute metabolic responses of simple bench step aerobics at two cadences (128 and 134 beats per minute) and two bench heights (6 and 10 inches), (2) calculate the average vertical ground reaction force and time to peak with each condition, and (3) attempt to create a regression equation to predict force impact and caloric cost based upon physiological height, weight, step cadence, and bench height. Twelve subjects reported to the exercise physiology lab for maximal treadmill testing and the four testing conditions. There were significant differences between bench height and cadence with all the dependent variables. A regression analysis to predict force impact and metabolic cost yielded modestly reliable equations. Additional research is necessary to determine each individual's threshold for beneficial training adaptations and increased injury risk.