We have previously clarified that energy expenditure during water walking was increased by high viscous resistance of water. It was known that the metabolic responses during water walking were affected by the depth of water, temperature and velocity.
　The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of viscosity and the depth of water on the energy expenditure during walking in water. Five males were employed as subjects.
　They walked on treadmill in air, in water and in viscous water. The depth of water was set at the height of waist and knee joint of the subjects. The set duration and velocity of walking were 15 minutes and 4 km・h⁻¹, respectively. The viscous water contained 1% solution of carboxymethyl cellulose (viscous coefficient : 470 cps). Oxygen uptake (Vo₂) was measured during walking. Vo₂ at steady state for all conditions were significantly different. Therefore the difference of depth and viscosity of water affects energy expenditure during exercise in water.
　We suggest that walking in viscous water is an effective training method, especially during the recovery from injuries.

DESCENTE SPORTS SCIENCE Vol.14/THE DESCENTE AND ISHIMOTO MEMORIAL FOUNDATION FOR THE PROMOTION SPORTS SCIENCE