Self-pacing and cognitive performance while walking

Ten hikers completed a 4 km hike on hilly terrain three times: once self-paced without load, once self-paced with a backpack load of 10% body weight, and once externally paced with a backpack load of 10% body weight. Subjects performed mental arithmetic tasks and provided ratings of perceived exertion while walking. No differences in speed or accuracy of performance of mental arithmetic problems were observed. A battery of cognitive and physical tests was performed prior to walking and after each of the three walks.