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Using the Alter-G Treadmill System with an Extremely Obese Female: A Case Study
Clinical Kinesiology
  • Shawn R. Simonson, Boise State University
  • Jane M. Shimon, Boise State University
  • Elaine M. Long, Boise State University
  • Brooke E. Lester, Boise State University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-1-2011
Disciplines
Abstract

PURPOSE: The present case study examined the potential use of the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill as treatment modality for extreme obese individuals. The special effect of the treadmill reduces ground reaction forces during walking through the use of lower body positive pressure. METHODS: One extremely obese (BMI 69.2) Caucasian 44 year-old female utilized the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill during a 14 wk walking program to pilot test the protocol. RESULTS: At the conclusion of the study, exercise tolerance time increased 3-fold (initially 20 min increased to 65 min) while caloric expenditure increased 4-fold (initially 91.0 kcal/session increased to 442.7 kcal/session) without an increase in heart rate or perceived pain in her lower extremities. The participant demonstrated a 2.75% weight reduction, a decrease in upper body circumference measurements and lower extremity swelling of her knees and ankles, and a 9.7% decrease in fasting blood glucose (102mg/dL). CONCLUSION: Overall, the AlterG Treadmill enabled the participant to exercise and walk pain-free at a distance, intensity level, and speed that she could not accomplish while walking on her own and suggests that further study of this modality is warranted.

Citation Information
Shawn R. Simonson, Jane M. Shimon, Elaine M. Long and Brooke E. Lester. "Using the Alter-G Treadmill System with an Extremely Obese Female: A Case Study" Clinical Kinesiology (2011)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/jane_shimon/18/