Physiological and biomechanical responses to three different landing surfaces during step aerobics

Using a padded landing surface during step aerobics has the potential to both reduce impact forces and increase energy cost. Eleven college-aged females performed 8-min trials [2-min of each step: basic step, alternate lead (AL), knee raise (KR), and step kick (SK)] on three surfaces. Surface conditions were uncovered force platform (FP) and FP covered with each of two different pads of medium-density foam [0.025 m (Thick) & 0.010 m (Thin)]. Data for oxygen consumption (VO sub(2)), heart rate (HR), ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), maximum vertical ground reaction force (VGRF), rear-foot motion, and time of foot contact (TFC) were collected and a landing surface questionnaire was administered to obtain subjective perceptions of surfaces. Two-way repeated measures ANOVAs (STEP [3] x SURFACE [3]) were calculated. There were no significant differences for any variables among the surfaces. Significant differences were detected for VO sub(2) (AL