Exercise Equipment for Strengthening the Ankle Dorsal Muscles That Can Be Safely Used While Sitting

This study proposes a safe, seated-use training device designed to strengthen the ankle dorsiflexor muscles, which are essential for maintaining walking stability and preventing falls. In addition to being safe and easy to use, the device enables ‘multitasking exercise’, allowing users to train while sitting and performing daily activities such as watching television. Furthermore, a muscle strength measurement system was developed to quantitatively evaluate the dorsiflexor force. To evaluate its effectiveness, electromyographic analysis examined the proposed device alongside commercially available steppers, demonstrating that only the proposed device provided stable and periodic activation of the ankle dorsiflexor muscle group. A three-week training test with healthy adults revealed increased dorsiflexor strength, confirming the device’s effectiveness following seated training. Exercise using the proposed device is expected to improve muscle strength around the ankle and toes, thereby enhancing ankle stability and helping to prevent falls caused by tripping. Safe and stable walking contributes to improved activities of daily living and extends the range of life activities for the elderly, preventing bedridden conditions and maintaining or improving quality of life.