Nonlinear modelling and control of heart rate response to treadmill walking exercise

In this study, a nonlinear system was developed for the modelling of the heart rate response to treadmill walking exercise. The model is a feedback interconnected system which can represent the neural response and peripheral local response to exercise. The parameters of the model were identified from an experimental study which involved 6 healthy adult male subjects, each completed 3 sets of walking exercise at different speeds. The proposed model will be useful in explaining the cardiovascular response to exercise. Based on the model, a 2-degree-of-freedom controller was developed for the regulation of the heart rate response during exercise. The controller consists of a piecewise LQ and an H∞, controllers. Simulation results showed that the proposed controller had the ability to regulate heart rate at a given target, indicating that the controller can play an important role in the design of exercise protocols for individuals