In this study, we clarified the characteristics of the displacement of the center of gravity of two walking motions which differ in the manner the legs are moved. We also investigated the influence of long-term participation in sports of walking motions.
We conducted a walking experiment to two kinds of walking motions, normal walking and suri-ashi※1 walking. The subjects of this experiment were 102 skillful athletes from various sports. They were instructed to walk 10m by means of the two kinds of walking motions. The change of the waist point (center of gravity point) during walking was measured by an acceleration sensor. The result showed that no significant difference was found in the vertical movement of the waist point between the two walking motions, and that long-term participation in sports had no influence on the walking motions. We also observed that in suri-ashi walking kendo athletes made larger vertical movement of their waist point than athletes in other sports. This suggests the possibility that suri-ashi walking secures the base of support, maintains stability, and increases the physical activity through vertical movement.
※1.suri-ashi:A technique in which both feet are kept on the floor while moving towards the opponent in a sliding manner.
