CONTROL OF WALKING SPEED IN YOUNG AND OLD ADULTS

Walking is a basic form of locomotion and walking velocity is a good predictor of human health, with faster velocities indicating better health. While faster walking velocities have been attributed to overall increases in lower extremity joint torques and powers, the precise relationships of torque and power outputs at each joint to walking velocity remain elusive. We proposed that these relationships are fundamental in developing effective training programs aimed at increasing walking velocity in mobility-challenged populations such as older adults. Based on the previously established argument that aging induces asymmetric changes in joint torques and powers, we hypothesized that walking velocity is more strongly related to hip torque and power than ankle torque and power in old adults than young adults. The purpose of this study was to identify the relationships among maximum, sagittal plane hip, knee, and ankle joint torques and powers and walking velocity in young and old, healthy adults in order to identify biomechanical correlates associated with modulating walking velocity. Gait biomechanics were collected using 8 camera 3D motion capture and force platform systems. Twenty-two young health