A Comparative Study Of Physiological Cost Index In Forward Treadmill Walking Versus Retro Treadmill Walking In Obese Class 1 Individuals

Background:- Retro (backward) walking has been shown to enhance cardiovascular endurance and musculoskeletal fitness. The treadmill is a commonly used and easily accessible tool for physical fitness training. Previous research supports the positive effects of backward walking on muscle activation. However, no study to date has compared the physiological cost index (PCI) between forward and backward treadmill walking in Class I obese individuals. Study design:- Cross sectional study Objective:- To compare the physiological cost index during forward and backward treadmill walking in Class I obese young adults. Materials and Methodology:- A total of 108 young adults (both male and female) with a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 29.9 kg/m² participated voluntarily. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: 55 individuals performed forward treadmill walking, and 53 performed backward treadmill walking at their self-selected comfortable walking speed. Resting heart rate and walking heart rate were recorded before and after treadmill activity. PCI was calculated using MacGregor’s formula: PCI = (Walking HR - Resting HR) / Walking Speed Results:- A significant difference in PCI was observed between the two groups. • Backward walking group: Mean PCI = 0.7364 • Forward walking group: Mean PCI = 0.5865 • P-value: 0.0049 This indicates that energy expenditure was significantly greater during backward treadmill walking compared to forward walking. Conclusion:- Backward treadmill walking results in a significantly higher physiological cost index than forward walking in young adults with Class I obesity. This suggests increased energy demand and potential benefits for weight management and cardiovascular conditioning through retro walking.