Locomotion Efficiency in Children With Cerebral Palsy Experiencing Limited Gross Motor Function: Walking Versus Cycling.

PURPOSE: This study compares cycling and walking efficiency, and energy expenditure in children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (CP). In children with CP, locomotion with body weight support aids such as a tricycle is a potential alternative for less exhausting movements.

METHODS: Nine children with CP traveled at comfortable speed for 6 minutes by cycling and walking. The energy expenditure index (EEI) and the percentage of the reserve heart rate (%HRR) were calculated.

RESULTS: The EEI was lower while cycling than walking, the traveled distance was higher while cycling than walking, and %HRR remained similar between cycling and walking.

CONCLUSION: Cycling appears an efficient alternative to walking for children with CP for adapted school environments and in the community.