Masters Theses
Increases in the exercise capacity of the arms following an endurance training program with the legs
Date of Award
12-1987
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Major Professor
Edward T. Howley
Committee Members
Ronald H. Cox, Jean Lewis
Abstract
Many studies have shown increases in the physical work capacity (V̇O2max) and reductions in the heart rate (HR) response to submaximal exercise after endurance training with the legs. However, a controversy remains as to whether these adaptations can be seen in the arms following leg training. The purpose of this study was to determine if "transfer effects" occur in the arms when only the legs are used during endurance training. A control (no exercise) group was used as a reference group for two (exercise) groups. One treatment group exercised while holding on to the handle bars while the other held their hands at their sides. Eighteen volunteers were used as subjects in the study. The subjects exercised at an intensity equal to 85-90% of their maximal heart rates for 30-minutes per session, 4 days per week for 4 weeks. Arm and leg cycle ergometer tests were used to measure maximal aerobic power (V̇O2max) with the arms and the legs, respectively. Maximal testing was conducted prior to and following the 4 week training period.
An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was computed for group comparisons to determine differences between the pre- and postmeasures for respiratory exchange ratio values, maximal V̇O2, maximal heart rate, and maximal workloads. The analysis indicated that no "transfer" to the arms occurred for either of the experimental groups (p > 0.05). A significant difference did exist among the leg V̇O2max values for the trained groups when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Increases in leg and arm V̇O2max values for group 2, were 10.3% and 6.6%, respectively, and for group 3, 11.0% and -1.0%, respectively. No significant differences were found when comparing groups 2 and 3.
It was concluded that further work is needed in the area of cross transfer. The recommendation calls for an experimental design that is conducted at the proper intensity (85-90% of maximal heart rate), frequency (4-5 days per week), and duration (10-11 weeks), while attempting to carefully isolate the arms from involvement during leg training.
Recommended Citation
Spruiell, R. Christopher, "Increases in the exercise capacity of the arms following an endurance training program with the legs. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1987.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/13591