Changes in Lower-Extremity Gait Biomechanics Following High-Cadence Cycling.

We sought to investigate the lower-extremity biomechanics underlying increased gait velocity following high-cadence cycling. Ground reaction forces (GRF) and lower-extremity kinematics and kinetics were recorded as 15 healthy adults walked at a self-selected pace prior to and immediately following a 15 min bout of cycling at a cadence of 75 rotations per minute. Propulsive GRF and stance-phase peak dorsiflexion and knee extension angles increased, while peak plantarflexion and hip extension angles decreased.

High cadence cycling not high work rate, increases gait velocity post-exercise.

Gait velocity, or walking speed, has been referred to as the sixth vital sign, and research suggests that it is highly sensitive to change. Previous research has demonstrated the utility of cycling to improve gait parameters and in particular gait velocity in a variety of populations. However, it is unclear if the benefits from cycling to gait velocity stem from increased cadence, increased work rate, or the interaction between them.