Free Walking Speeds on Stairs: Effects of Stair Gradients and Obesity of Pedestrians

Abstract

Effects of stair gradients and obesity on walking speeds on stairs were empirically investigated. The participants included a group of elderly people (n=18) and a group of young people (n=15). They were asked to ascend/descend four staircases with different gradients, as well as to walk on a flat surface, at both normal and fast speeds. The study found the effects of stair gradients. When walking speeds on stairs are estimated, the gradient should be taken into account. In contrast, the study found no effect of overweight (or moderate obesity) on speeds.