Are heart rate methods based on ergometer cycling and level treadmill walking interchangeable?

Abstract

Introduction

The heart rate (HR) method is a promising approach for evaluating oxygen uptake (

), energy demands and exercise intensities in different forms of physical activities. It would be valuable if the HR method, established on ergometer cycling, is interchangeable with other regular activities, such as level walking. This study therefore aimed to examine the interchangeability of the HR method when estimating

for ergometer cycling and level treadmill walking in submaximal conditions.

Methods

Two models of

regression equations for cycle ergometer exercise (CEE) and treadmill exercise (TE) were established with 34 active commuters. Model 1 consisted of three submaximal intensities of ergometer cycling or level walking, model 2 included also one additional workload of maximal ergometer cycling or running. The regression equations were used for estimating

with seven individual HR values based on 25–85% of HR reserve (HRR). The

estimations were compared between CEE and TE, within and between each model.

Results

Only minor, and in most cases non-significant, average differences were observed when comparing the estimated

levels between CEE and TE. Model 1 ranged from -0.4 to 4.8% (n.s.) between 25–85%HRR. In model 2, the differences between 25–65%HRR ranged from 1.3 to -2.7% (n.s.). At the two highest intensities, 75 and 85%HRR,

was slightly lower (3.7%, 4.4%; P < 0.05), for CEE than TE. The inclusion of maximal exercise in the

relationships reduced the individual

variations between the two exercise modalities.

Conclusion

The HR methods, based on submaximal ergometer cycling and level walking, are interchangeable for estimating mean

levels between 25–85% of HRR. Essentially, the same applies when adding maximal exercise in the

relationships. The inter-individual

variation between ergometer cycling and treadmill exercise is reduced when using the HR method based on both submaximal and maximal workloads.