Influence of Varying Backpack Loads and Selected Carrying Durations on Time Elapsed Between First and Second Peak Forces of Walking Gait of School-going Boys

Rabiya Husain; Dhananjoy Shaw

doi:10.17309/jltm.2025.6.2.01

Authors

Rabiya Husain University of Delhi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1434-1191
Dhananjoy Shaw University of Delhi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4275-6389

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17309/jltm.2025.6.2.01

Keywords:

backpack load, first peak force, gait analysis, load carriage, midstance phase, second peak force, time interval

Abstract

Background. Maintaining stability and forward propulsion during walking—particularly under load—requires continuous gait adjustments.

Objectives. To examine the effects of varying backpack loads and carrying durations on the time elapsed between the first peak force (FPF) and the second peak force (SPF) during the walking gait of school-going boys.

Materials and Methods. Eighty-five boys (aged 10–12 years) from the National Capital Territory of Delhi participated. Temporal gait parameters were measured using a Zebris Force Distribution Measurement pressure plate under five backpack load conditions (0%, 8%, 12%, 16%, and 20% of body weight) and five carrying durations (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes). Participants walked barefoot along a 10 m walkway with the plate positioned centrally. Data from five trials per condition were analyzed descriptively.

Results. Increasing load and duration significantly prolonged the interval between FPF and SPF, indicating an extended midstance phase. At 15–20% body weight, compensatory gait mechanisms began to fail, leading to longer intervals and greater variability, suggesting biomechanical strain and reduced walking efficiency.

Conclusions. Backpack weight and carrying duration markedly influence temporal gait parameters, particularly the FPF–SPF interval. These findings support the need for effective load management and ergonomic strategies to ensure safe backpack use in schoolchildren.

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Author Biographies

Rabiya Husain, University of Delhi

Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences
Delhi, India
rabiyahsn70@gmail.com

Dhananjoy Shaw, University of Delhi

Indira Gandhi Institute of Physical Education and Sports Sciences
Delhi, India
dhananjoyshaw1960@gmail.com

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