BACK SKIN DEFORMATION DURING ANAEROBIC EXERCISES FOR ERGONOMICS APPLICATION
2024
Authors: Tsai-Chun Huang and Bingxue Li
School of Fashion and Textiles, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
The back contains many muscles and is difficult to train, making it important to study skin deformation during anaerobic exercise. This study introduces a muscle-based method to visualize back skin deformation during resistance training, providing insights for gym wear and wearable device design.
Eight trained males performed three back exercises while their backs were marked at 3 cm intervals over the trapezius and latissimus dorsi. Skin measurements before and after exercise were collected using a 3D scanner, and data were analyzed based on muscle morphology and fiber orientation.
The findings offer regional skin deformation characteristics, which can inform intelligent monitoring and improve the design and comfort of fitness apparel and wearable devices.
The results showed that the trapezius muscle experienced maximum deformation of up to 24.23% horizontally, with varying degrees in longitudinal and diagonal directions. The latissimus dorsi showed its greatest deformation diagonally, reaching 17.60%. Both muscles exhibited distinct segmental deformation patterns, with the trapezius showing concentrated compression in the lower half and the latissimus dorsi displaying uneven deformation, especially in the upper third.
These findings suggest that targeted reinforcement in high-deformation regions can improve muscle support and reduce injury risk. The study’s regional analysis provides valuable data for designing gym wear and wearable devices, helping to optimize fit, comfort, and intelligent monitoring.
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