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Energetic costs of incidental visual coupling during treadmill running

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Daniel EavesORCiD

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Abstract

Purpose: To determine the role of visual-spatial information in stabilizing movement during treadmill locomotion. Methods: Physiological, biomechanical, and psychological indices of coordination stability were recorded while participants were visually coupled with a whole-body image of themselves during treadmill locomotion. Ten participants ran on a treadmill under three visual conditions: two dynamic images (symmetrical, mirror image; asymmetrical, reversed mirror image) and one static. Performance was examined at two speeds. Results: Participants ran more economically (mL·kg·min−1) when they were visually coupled with a symmetrical rather than with an asymmetrical or static image. An asymmetrical coupling resulted in increased variability in footfall position at the faster speed, in comparison to the symmetrical and static conditions. However, at slower speeds, footfall variability and frequency were higher under both dynamic visual conditions in comparison to the static control. Changes in metabolic economy (mL·kg·min−1) were only partially mediated by movement kinematics. Conclusion: Visual information influences treadmill locomotion and associated measures of stability even when there is no intention to coordinate with external stimuli.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Eaves DL, Hodges NJ, Williams AM

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Medicine and Science in Sport and Exercise

Year: 2008

Volume: 40

Issue: 8

Pages: 1506-1514

Print publication date: 01/08/2008

ISSN (print): 0195-9131

ISSN (electronic): 1530-0315

Publisher: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins

URL: https://doi.org/10.1249/MSS.0b013e31817057a8

DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e31817057a8

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