Effects of Backpack Frame Length, Pack Load, and Participation Time on the Physical Performance of Men and Women

Abstract : This study was conducted to determine the effects of backpack frame length and pack load on the movement capabilities of men and women. The tests included walking on a treadmill at 5.6 km/hr, an agility run around obstacles, and ladder climbing. Performance data were recorded before and after two, 20- minute periods of overground walking at 5.6 km/hr. Seventeen men and 16 women were tested under eight combinations of frame length and pack load. The men used frame lengths of 18, 20, 22, and 24 inches, while those used by the women were 16, 18, 20, and 22 inches. The pack load conditions included a common load for the men and the women of 26 kg and a second load of 33 kg for the men and 40 kg for the men. Time to complete the agility run and the ladder climb increased significantly as load was increased. Increased load also produced significant modifications in the mechanics of walking. Analyses of frame effects indicated that agility run and ladder climb scores tended to be somewhat better under the longer than the shorter frame lengths. However, changes in frame length resulted in only minor modifications in walking patterns.