Effect of Backpack Load Influencing the Cardio-Respiratory Changes in Stair Climbing in Adolescents

Abstract

Postural and physiological changes are the distinct changes occurring in the adolescence which contributes fitness level of a child. The biomechanics of these children are highly affected by load carriage while climbing stairs which results in increase in cardio respiratory responses. Evaluation of the cardio respiratory changes is necessary in curbing further damage. In the study we evaluated the effect of backpack load influencing the cardio respiratory measures in stair climbing adolescents. 100 adolescents subjects aged 13-16 yrs were selected for the study, with graded loading for three consecutive days. Heart rate, rate of perceived exertion and respiratory rate were measured pre and post loading. Values of all the parameters on each day were compared. With increase in load, increase in heart rate, rate of perceived exertion and respiratory rate were significant when compared with progression in load. Although the measure which is highly affected amongst these was heart rate. The backpack with 30% load produces the elevation of variables at a greater extent hence there should be curbing of weight of 30% of adolescent’s body weight. Key words: Adolescence, Backpack load, Rate of Perceived Exertion.