Optimizing Backrest Geometry to Minimize Interfacial Pressure Concentrations in the Mid-to-Lumbar Region During Leg Press Resistance Training

Open access
Datum
2022-03Typ
- Journal Article
ETH Bibliographie
yes
Altmetrics
Abstract
The leg press is a resistance training (RT) exercise common to both weight- and powerlifting, where spine-related injuries remain prevalent. Here, the elevated loading has the potential to result in increased pressure on vertebral bodies and introduce the risk of spinal injury. This study, therefore, investigates back interfacial pressure under leg press loading conditions and offers design recommendations to minimize spatial pressure concentrations. A pressure mat was used to assess the back-backrest interfacial pressure distribution of 15 subjects executing RT leg-presses at 50% body weight, over 16 different back-support geometries. Real-time forces, knee angles, and pressures were captured. The resulting data show that more prominent (≥2.1 cm) back-supports, positioned 19 cm above the seat pan typically produced greater peak pressures (41.8 ± 7.2 kPa). Conversely, less prominent supports (∼0.7 cm) generally achieved lower peak pressures (with greater distribution). Our data suggest that the most prudent choice for fixed-shape backrests to best distribute interfacial pressure on leg-press devices is to incorporate shallow convex supports (∼0.7 cm) and locate them away from P = 19 cm. The result is surprising as this prominence location is a common ergonomic feature. If an adjustable backrest is considered, peak pressures may be reduced by up to 26 ± 8% (9.7 ± 3.1 kPa) compared to flat geometries. Mehr anzeigen
Persistenter Link
https://doi.org/10.3929/ethz-b-000529850Publikationsstatus
publishedExterne Links
Zeitschrift / Serie
Journal of Biomechanical EngineeringBand
Seiten / Artikelnummer
Verlag
American Society of Mechanical EngineersThema
low back pain; pressure distribution; backrest pressure; leg press; body/seat interactionOrganisationseinheit
03994 - Taylor, William R. / Taylor, William R.
ETH Bibliographie
yes
Altmetrics