Effect of single and double backpack strap loading on gait and perceived exertion of young adults.

Abstract

Backpack effect posture, walking and physiological costs but there is dearth of literature on effects of backpack strap (1 versus 2 straps) on gait and perceived exertion among young adults. We determined the influence of type of backpack shoulder strap on gait parameters and perceived exertion of young adults in a free-living normal walking speed. Twenty-five young adults with a mean age of 22 years underwent a self-selected normal speed walking for six minutes each under 3 testing conditions: without a backpack; with 1 strap; and with 2 straps. Selected gait parameters and perceived exertion were assessed. There were no significant difference in stride length, stride time, step length, step time, gait speed, and cadence among the three walking conditions. However, perceived exertions were significantly higher when the backpack was carried with 15% irrespective of 1 strap or 2 straps. Momentary carriage of a backpack either on 1 strap or 2 straps does not appear to influence gait phases. However, this short bout of normal walking appear to increase perceived exertion in young adults irrespective of whether the backpack is wore on single or double shoulder strap.