Energy expenditure, productivity, and physical work capacity of sugarcane loaders

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Abstract
V̇o2, E and heart rates (fH) were measured in 28 Colombian sugarcane loaders while loading cane and in the laboratory during a V̇o2max test. Productivity (metric tons day−1) of the workers was also obtained. During work, V̇o2 was 1.25 I·min−, V̇E 38.8 1 min−1, and fH 120 beats·min−1. The subjects worked at 42% of V̇o2max (6.3 ± 1.0 kcal min−1) during the field measurement periods. Energy expenditure was estimated to average 3,281 kcal · 24 hr−1. Productivity was higher in men with lower fat content, resting fH and fH at V̇o2 = 1.25 1-min−1 indicating a positive relationship between productivity and physical fitness. Productivity was not related to age but, since V̇o2max decreased with age, the relative effort required to maintain productivity increased in the older workers. Efficiency (kg cane loaded·1 V̇o2−1) and estimated sustained effort (percent V̇o2max) were not significantly correlated with productivity in this type of discontinuous, moderate work.

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