D. Theisen , C. Fornusek , J. Raymond , G. M. Davis
DOI: 10.1080/16501970213238

This study analysed external power output and physiologic responses in 5 individuals with paraplegia during 40 minutes of electrical stimulation leg cycle exercise. Cycling was performed on a motor-driven isokinetic ergometer that enabled precise determinations of power output. Electrical stimulation was increased to 120-140 mA within the first 5 minutes and remained constant thereafter. Power output increased to 10. 7 ± 3. 0 W after 2 minutes, dropped to 5. 3 ± 1. 8 W after 6 minutes and subsequently recovered to 8. 2 ± 2. 2 and 6. 1 ± 2. 3 W after 19. 5 and 40 minutes, respectively. Oxygen consumption increased to 0. 47 ± 0. 09 l/min after 6 minutes and declined during the second half of the exercise bout. Gross mechanical efficiency after 19. 5 minutes was elevated compared with the value after 6 minutes. Heart rate was significantly increased at the end of the trial. The time-dependent variability of power output and physiological responses question the concept of steady state for this form of exercise.