Estimation of maximum permissible loads to be carried by Indians of different ages

Porters in different age groups, 20-29 yr, 30-39 yr, 40-49 yr and 50 yr and above, carried loads of 0,20,30,40,50 and 60 kg, within the range carried by them in their daily work, at a fixed speed of 5 km h−1, the average normal speed of walking with loads. The range of energy expenditure relative to measured maximum oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O2 max) suggests that the maximum permissible loads to be carried at 5kmh−1 by subjects in these age groups are 41,23,21 and 11 kg, respectively.