Double limb support occurs during how much of the gait cycle total?

Double limb support occurs during how much of the gait cycle total?

• A. Two intervals of 10% each
• B. One interval of 40%
• C. One interval of 60%
• D. Two intervals of 20% each

Answer: (A)

Double limb support is the period when both feet are on the ground during the step-to-step transition. In a normal walking cycle, this happens twice: once just after the heel strikes the ground and weight begins to shift to the stance leg, and again just before the leading foot toe-offs and the other foot finishes its stance. Each of these intervals lasts about 10% of the gait cycle, so together they make up roughly 20% of the cycle. That’s why two 10% intervals is the best description. Keep in mind that slower walking can lengthen these periods, while faster walking shortens them.

Double limb support is the period when both feet are on the ground during the step-to-step transition. In a normal walking cycle, this happens twice: once just after the heel strikes the ground and weight begins to shift to the stance leg, and again just before the leading foot toe-offs and the other foot finishes its stance. Each of these intervals lasts about 10% of the gait cycle, so together they make up roughly 20% of the cycle. That’s why two 10% intervals is the best description. Keep in mind that slower walking can lengthen these periods, while faster walking shortens them.