Institute of Medical Physics

Background Stamina is a key component within all major tasks necessary for proper motor function. Particularly in individuals in the second half of their lifespan, there is a direct correlation between diminished stamina and increased morbidity and mortality rates. Currently, there are numerous studies validating the relationship between stamina and varying physical capabilities. In this context, a number of studies confirm the positive effect of a walking program to enhance stamina (as measured by the maximal oxygen intake [VO2 max]), which in turn is also linked with a highly reduced probability of cardiovascular illness. Frequent attempts have been made in the past to increase the effectiveness of stamina training by the addition of supplemental tools such as weighted wrist bands, dumbbells or walking poles. The Xco-Trainer is such a new tool, which is intended to stimulate increased activity of the upper body musculature during walking. And indeed, a representative cross-over study by the Institute of Medical Physics (IMP) of the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg confirmed that walking at a constant speed with the Xco-Trainer yielded a significantly greater metabolic and cardiac response than walking at a similar pace without a weight. The study at hand, which was conducted within the framework of a diploma thesis under the auspices of the IMP, explores (by use of longitudinal sectional design) to what extent the tool’s effectiveness, as previously verified by earlier studies, could be further improved with more refined adaptations geared specifically towards endurance performance, and other health-related goals.