Effect of Backward Walking Training on Quadriceps Strength and Thigh Girth Among College Going Students in KarnatakaBangalore

Abstract

Background: Backward walking has emerged as an important therapy. Backward walking is regulated by the same central pattern generator as forward walking. Unlike forward walking, backward walking has no heel in contact in the early stance phase and thus leads to lower compression force at the patello femoral joint and decreased force absorption at the knee joint. In addition lower limb muscle activity during backward walking is intensified on account of the higher recruitment of motor unit Backward walking is recently emerging exercise that helps to increase the muscle strength of lower limb. This study aims to see the effect of backward walking on quadriceps strength and thigh girth measurement.

Methods: Initially the subject was made to walk 10 steps forward and 9 steps backward and was observed for any discomfort. If no discomfort then patient is made to walk backward for 10 minutes per session barefoot. This was followed by unilateral straight leg raise. Hamstring stretching and static quadriceps exercise. This training programme was carried out for 20 minutes 3 days/week for 4 weeks with the total of 12 session.

Result: The result of this study showed that significant improvement in girth measure with male and female population and right-side strength improvement in the male population.

Discussion: The result of this study will enhance our understanding on the therapeutic effect of backward walking training on quadriceps strength and thigh girth among college going student. The strength and thigh girth improvement seen in the quadriceps is attributed to the physiological adaptation which occurs in the skeletal muscle. Backward walking programme was given four weeks post training.

Conclusion: This study concluded that clinically backward walking can lead to improved quadriceps strength and girth.