Date of Award
4-1997
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Human Performance and Health Education
Department
Health, Physical Education & Recreation
First Advisor
Dr. Roger Zabik
Second Advisor
Dr. Mary Dawson
Third Advisor
Dr. Patricia Frye
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of step height and arm involvement on oxygen consumption (VO2), VO2 as a percentage of VO2max, and energy cost during step aerobics. VO2 and Respiratory Exchange Ratio were measured as 12 subjects completed 6 experimental conditions, which consisted of 3 step heights, 4, 6, and 8 in., and 2 arm conditions, with and without arms. Measured VO2 values were also analyzed as a percentage of maximal oxygen consumption to determine if subjects were within the ACSM recommended range of 50% to 85% of VO2max. ANOVAs revealed significant differences in each variable for step height and arm involvement. The 4 in. step height without arms was the only condition not within the recommended range. Results showed that increasing step height and the addition of arm involvement increased VO2, VO2 as a percentage of VO2max, and energy cost.
Recommended Citation
Riker, Heidi A., "The Effect of Step Height and Upper Body Involvement on Oxygen Consumption and Energy Expenditure during Step Aerobics" (1997). Masters Theses. 4520.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4520