Investigating the correlation between paediatric stride interval persistence and gross energy expenditure

BACKGROUND: Stride interval persistence, a term used to describe the correlation structure of stride interval time series, is thought to provide insight into neuromotor control, though its exact clinical meaning has not yet been realized. Since human locomotion is shaped by energy efficient movements, it has been hypothesized that stride interval dynamics and energy expenditure may be inherently tied, both having demonstrated similar sensitivities to age, disease, and pace-constrained walking. FINDINGS: This study tested for correlations between stride interval persistence and measures of energy expenditure including mass-specific gross oxygen consumption per minute ([Image: see text]), mass-specific gross oxygen cost per meter (VO(2)) and heart rate (HR). Metabolic and stride interval data were collected from 30 asymptomatic children who completed one 10-minute walking trial under each of the following conditions: (i) overground walking, (ii) hands-free treadmill walking, and (iii) handrail-supported treadmill walking. Stride interval persistence was not significantly correlated with [Image: see text] (p > 0.32), VO(2 )(p > 0.18) or HR (p > 0.56). CONCLUSIONS: No simple linear dependence exists between stride interval persistence and measures of gross energy expenditure in asymptomatic children when walking overground and on a treadmill.