B. Jacobson et K. Jones, Comparison of selected perceptual variables for backpacks with internal and external frames, PERC MOT SK, 90(2), 2000, pp. 605-608
Differences in perceptions of comfort, exertion, balance, and heart. rate w
ere investigated with two types of backpack. Subjecrs were 20 male voluntee
rs (M age = 24.3 yr., SD: 3.6, M height = 180.02 cm, SD: 8.0, and M weight
= 86.46 kg, SD: 14.84). Following oral briefing and practice trials, each s
ubject was fitted at random with either an internal- or external-frame back
pack containing 18.2 kg. By ran dom, cross-over design, subjects completed
a 30-m simulated hiking trail consisting of 16 separate obstacles designed
to resemble actual off-trail hiking. Trials were conducted in a controlled
environment with the walking intensity regulated by a metronome. Upon compl
etion of each trial, the subjects rated the experience on perceived comfort
, balance and stability, and rating of perceived exertion. Heart rate was r
ecorded immediately prior to and following each trial. Analysis yielded a s
ignificant difference only on rating of perceived exertion in favor of the
internal-frame backpack. Under limited circumstances, these data suggest th
at both types of backpacks provide similar comfort and balance and stabilit
y; however, internal frames in backpacks may reduce perceived exertion duri
ng short, demanding hikes.