Predicting VO2 Max for College Soccer and Field Hockey Players Using the Pacer Fitness Test

Abstract

The Pacer test is commonly used to determine the soccer-specific fitness of elite soccer players. PURPOSE: To determine the validity and reliability of the 20-meter multistage fitness test (Pacer Test) for predicting the maximal aerobic capacity (VO2 max) of female collegiate athletes. METHODS: Twenty-two collegiate female soccer and field hockey players (19.14 + 1.13 yrs) completed a maximal aerobic treadmill test and a 20-meter multistage fitness test. The treadmill protocol involved continuous intervals of increasing speed and required subjects to run to exhaustion. VO2 max was measured using a Medgraphics CPX oxygen analyzer. The multistage fitness test requires subjects to complete the 20-meter shuttle run within increasing speed increments indicated by an emitted audio signal from a calibrated CD. The test protocols were performed with a minimum of 24 hours and a maximum of seven days between the two testing sessions. In addition, five subjects were randomly selected to complete a second Pacer Test to establish inter-trial reliability. Paired t-tests were used to determine validity and reliability. RESULTS: A significant difference was found between the measured VO2 max on the treadmill and the predicted VO2 max from the Pacer Test (p<0.001). The results also indicate that there was no difference between the two repeated Pacer Tests. CoNCLUsIoN: While the Pacer Test appears to be a reliable fitness test, its validity for predicting the VO2 max of collegiate female athletes using the current prediction equation is questionable. Stepwise regression analysis suggests that a new formula, Vo2 max = 32.045+.230(laps completed) more accurately predicts VO2 max of intercollegiate female athletes from the Pacer Test.