Postprandial Glycemic and Physiological Responses to Walking With a Wearable Hip Exoskeleton in Healthy Adults

This study investigated whether walking with a wearable hip exoskeleton could modulate postprandial glycemic and physiological responses in healthy adults. Using a randomized crossover design, each participant completed four experimental conditions in a controlled laboratory setting: seated control, walking without the wearable hip exoskeleton, walking with the Bot-Fit device in Aqua mode, and walking with the Bot-Fit device in Boost mode.

Postprandial glucose responses were assessed after meal ingestion during each experimental trial. Physiological responses, including heart rate, perceived exertion, and energy expenditure, were also evaluated to compare the metabolic and perceptual demands of walking with and without the wearable hip exoskeleton. The study was designed as a proof-of-concept trial to examine whether wearable hip exoskeleton-assisted walking may influence postprandial glucose regulation in healthy adults.

Inclusion criteria

• Healthy adults aged 20 to 65 years.
• Participants who were able to complete walking trials with and without the wearable hip exoskeleton.
• Participants who provided written informed consent before participation.

Exclusion criteria

• Participants with diagnosed metabolic, cardiovascular, neurological, or musculoskeletal disorders.
• Participants with conditions that could affect walking ability or safe use of the wearable hip exoskeleton.
• Participants taking medications known to affect glucose metabolism.
• Participants who were unable to comply with the study procedures.