EMG Analysis of Level and Incline Walking in Reebok EasyTone ET Calibrator

Abstract

This study examines (1) the effect of the Reebok Easytone walking shoe on muscle activity of three large extrinsic muscles compared to walking in a neutral running shoe, and (2) a comparison of muscle activity when walking on an inclined slope and walking in the EasyTone shoe on level ground. Methods. Ten male subjects participated in a crossover study. A comparative analysis of treadmill walking in a Reebok EasyTone ET Calibrator and a Nike Lunarglide +2 at zero and 12% gradient was conducted. Electromyographic (EMG) signals from m. gastrocnemius lateral head (GL), m. biceps femoris (BF), and m. gluteus maximus (GM) of the left leg were processed. Results. This study found no significant (P < 0.05) increase in muscle activity between the two types of shoes. An expected significant increase (P < 0.05) from level to incline walking in GL, BF and GM was observed. Conclusion. Our study did not observe an effect of the Reebok EasyTone shoe on larger extrinsic muscles. Further testing should focus on the shoe’s effect on smaller extrinsic muscles.