Citation

Burr JF, Jamnik VK, Shaw JA, Gledhill N. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc. 2010; 42(7): 1345-1354.

Affiliation

1Physical Activity and Chronic Disease Unit, School of Kinesiology and Health Science, 2Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto Ontario.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1249/MSS.0b013e3181cd5cd3

PMID

20019629

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:: The purpose of this study was to characterize the physiological demands of recreational off-road vehicle riding under typical riding conditions using habitual recreational off-road vehicle riders (n= 128). METHODS:: Comparisons of the physical demands of off-road vehicle riding were made between vehicle types (all-terrain vehicle; ATV and off-road motorcycle; ORM), and to the demands of common recreational activities. Habitual riders (ATV=56, ORM=72) performed strength assessments before and after a representative trail ride (48+/-24.2 min) and ambulatory oxygen consumption was measured during one lap (24.2+/- 11.8 min) of the ride. RESULTS:: The mean VO2 requirement (ml.kg.min) while riding an off-road vehicle was 12.1+/-4.9 for ATV and 21.3+/-7.1 for ORM (p=.002) which is comparable to the VO2 required of many common recreational activities. Temporal analysis of activity intensity revealed approximately 14% of an ATV ride and 38% of an ORM ride is within the intensity range (>40% VO2 Reserve) required to achieve changes in aerobic fitness. Riding on a representative course also led to muscular fatigue, particularly in the upper body. CONCLUSIONS:: Based on the measured metabolic demands, evidence of muscular strength requirements, and the associated caloric expenditures with off-road vehicle riding, this alternative form of activity conforms to recommended physical activity guidelines and could be effective for achieving beneficial changes in health and fitness.

Language: en