This study was undertaken to develop a bed-type cycling system of lower limbs for rehabilitation. This system consists of two modes of cycling: active and passive. Different velocity and loads are provided for improving the muscle function recovery and increasing the muscular strength. To analyze the muscle activity pattern, we measured muscular activity of lower limbs in the rectus femoris (RF), biceps femoris (BF), tibialis anterior (TA), medial gastrocnemius (MG), and soleus (SOL), while cycling in the supine position, and based on the pedaling direction. A total of 18 young and 23 elderly, healthy subjects participated in this study. Muscle activity of MG muscles was significantly different in the two age groups. This study could provide the reference data to develop cycling exercises for lower limbs during rehabilitation of the elderly patients.
