Astronauts visiting the International Space Station (ISS) usually stay for about six months. The conditions of microgravity on board the ISS cause muscles to be lost quickly if a strict exercise regimen is not followed during that time.
NASA astronaut Loral O’Hara has just shared a video in which she is seen using many of the exercise machines on the station during her stay aboard the orbital outpost, before returning to Earth in April. O’Hara calls the video “a little glimpse into our space gym.”
The lack of gravity on board the ISS requires the use of many harnesses to stay in place. They also add resistance, as traditional training does not work due to the lack of gravity.
A brutal daily workout to avoid losing muscle mass
O’Hara notes that each astronaut exercises for 2.5 hours per day. This includes about 60 minutes of weightlifting and between 30 and 50 minutes of cardiovascular exercise such as running or cycling.
“Although any exercise program has its challenges, I found it very enjoyable to have the opportunity to work out my body every day and relax a bit by listening to music or podcasts, reading, studying for upcoming events, and hanging out in the Cupola watching the station and the planet in between sets,” said O’Hara.
At the beginning of human space exploration, scientists understood that exercise is a vital part to keep bones and muscles healthy in orbit, just like on Earth. In the early missions, simple elastic bands were used for exercise, but since then, gym equipment has become increasingly sophisticated.
The current exercise machines on board the space station include ARED (Advanced Resistive Exercise Device), a machine built with pneumatic cylinders that create the necessary force to give the astronaut a decent workout.
Another machine is the Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation and Stabilization System (CEVIS), a specially designed “bike” for aerobic exercises.
Scientists continue to investigate the effects of exercise in space, as well as other aspects such as diet, to help NASA better prepare for upcoming lunar missions in which astronauts could stay for extended periods of time inside a lunar base.
