The physiological effects of a low-impact Bodyattack™ class

Objective: To estimate total energy expenditure and intensity of a low impact BodyattackTM session using combined heart rate and movement sensing technology. Method: Participants were 10 (8 males) normal-weight adults (33 ± 3 years-old). Maximal oxygen capacity and heart rate were determined by the performance on a treadmill maximal exercise test using indirect calorimetric method. Heart rate and energy expenditure values were monitored during a Bodyattack™ routine using a combined heart rate and movement sensor. The manufacturer's combined activity and heart rate algorithm was used to estimate Total and Physical activity energy expenditure. Results: A 60 min low impact BodyattackTM session demands a Total energy expenditure of 469.4 ± 170.8 kcal at an average intensity of 64% of maximal heart rate, from which approximately 27.2 min are spent at moderate to vigorous physical activity intensities. Compared to a high impact BodyattackTM session as reported by the trademark company, Total energy expenditure was lower in the low impact option (-194.8 Kcal, p=0.006), but no significant differences were found in average intensity (-9.4%, p=0.707). Conclusion: Bodyattack™ routines performed at a low impact option may be sufficient to meet minimal recommendations for developing and maintaining cardiorespiratory fitness, if practiced beyond three days.week-1. Although appropriate for untrained individuals and those with orthopedic limitations, energy requirements of low impact Bodyattack™ may not be enough to elicit an effective weight loss.