Influence of Repeated Maximal Testing on Anxiety and Work Capacity in College Women

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of this investigation was to examine the interaction between anxiety and physical work capacity (PWC). Thirty college-age females completed the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and their physical work capacity was assessed by either a bicycle ergometer or treadmill test across 3 days within 1 week. The subjects in the ergometer group pedalled at 60 rpms and 25 watts for 4 minutes with increases of 25 watts each 4 minutes thereafter. The standard Balke treadmill test was employed for the treadmill group. PWC was evaluated by time in seconds to criterion heart rates of 150 and 170 beats per minute, as well as self-determined exhaustion (PWC150, PWC170, and the PWCmax). Analysis of variance revealed no significant difference in PWC or state anxiety across days, and PWC was not correlated with state or trait anxiety under any of the conditions. Also, the self-report anxiety data were in agreement with heart rate and blood pressure responses. It is concluded that a single test is ...