Psychophysiological responses to treadwall and indoor wall climbing in adult female climbers

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to compare the psychophysiological response of climbers of a range of abilities (lower grade to advanced) when ascending identical climbing routes on a climbing wall and a rotating treadwall. Twenty-two female climbers (31.2 ± 9.4 years; 60.5 ± 6.5 kg; 168.6 ± 5.7 cm) completed two identical 18 m climbing trials (graded 4 on the French Sport scale) separated by 1 week, one on the treadwall (climbing low to the ground) and the other on the indoor wall (climbing in height). Indirect calorimetry, venous blood samples and video-analysis were used to assess energy cost, hormonal response and time-load characteristics. Energy costs were higher during indoor wall climbing comparing to those on the treadwall by 16% (P < 0.001, $$\upmu _{{\text{p}}}^{2}$$ μ p 2 = 0.48). No interaction of climbing ability and climbing condition were found. However, there was an interaction for climbing ability and post-climbing catecholamine concentration (P < 0.01, $$\upmu _{{\text{p}}}^{2}$$ μ p 2 = 0.28). Advanced climbers’ catecholamine response increased by 238% and 166% with respect to pre-climb values on the treadwall and indoor wall, respectively; while lower grade climbers pre-climb concentrations were elevated by 281% and 376% on the treadwall and indoor wall, respectively. The video analysis showed no differences in any time-motion variables between treadwall and indoor wall climbing. The study demonstrated a greater metabolic response for indoor wall climbing, however, the exact mechanisms are not yet fully understood.

Metabolic demands of slacklining in less and more advanced slackliners

“…It appears that slacklining requires a considerably greater metabolic response than stabilization tasks on unstable surfaces. This may be the result of the greater task difficulty or greater effort required for balance control, which in turn is perhaps related to perceived fall stress (Baláš et al, 2021; Pijpers et al, 2006). On the other hand, regular falls occur during slacklining, which may increase the metabolic cost.…”

“…Anecdotally, these stabilization demands appear more pronounced during basic slackline tasks such as walking and one‐leg standing. Moreover, balancing tasks over the ground with a potential risk of fall result in greater effort for postural control, perceived exertion and metabolic cost (Baláš et al, 2021; Gajdošík et al, 2020; Pijpers et al, 2006).…”

Effects of Kin Ball Initiation: Pre- and Post-Pandemic Impact on Palmar Muscle Strength, Endurance, and Coordination in Non-Athlete Participants

“…The intervention programs encompass a broad spectrum of activities, including diversified sports, adventure programs, and alternative approaches utilizing a common tool—the ball [ 5 , 6 , 7 ]. The multifaceted use of the ball in various forms not only promotes fun and goodwill but also fosters the development of individual and collective physical and mental capacities.…”

Initiation in Kin Ball – Pre and Post Pandemic Effects on Hand Strength, Resistance and Coordination

“…However, a series of research highlights the complementarity of other intervention programs with the aim of increasing motivation and participation, developing motor skills in the youth generation (Amado et al, 2014). Among these, we can mention the most diversified sports (Pricop et al, 2020, Rhea & Martin, 2010, adventure programs (Buckley, 2012), parkour (Kidder, 2013), programs of judo (Ion-Ene et al, 2014), climbing (Baláš et al, 2021) or swimming (A. Badau et al, 2022).…”