The aims of this study were: 1) to propose predictive equations for gait energy expenditure (GEE) of young individuals in three situations: a) when the identification of the gait velocity is possible; b) when heart rate (HR) monitoring is possible; and c) when neither the velocity identification nor the HR monitoring is possible; and 2) to validate the GEE made by the HR Polar M71® monitor. Thirty individuals (16 males, 22.7 ± 2.6 years and 14 female, 22.1 ± 2.1 years), non-athletes, physical education students were instructed to walk on the treadmill with 1% inclination, in self-selected low, moderate and high intensity velocities, during 6 minutes in each velocity. The VO2, measured by the Aerosport Metabolic Analyzer Teem 100, HR and GEE estimated by the monitor, were registered in the last 2 minutes of each load. It was concluded that the best GEE prediction is done with the use of the gait velocity and the individual's body weight. HR for prediction of GEE should be accompanied by the gender and rest HR. The perceived exertion scale proposed in this study should be utilized only when it is not possible to register the velocity or the HR. The use of other scales of perceived exertion is encouraged. The HR Polar M71 monitor is a valid instrument for GEE estimation, with the limitation that is necessary that HR exceeds 100 bpm. Its precision is enhanced at high intensity gait.
Perceived exertion; Heart rate monitor; Oxygen consumption; Gait
