Estimated VO2max Values Research Articles

Self-Reported Physical Activity and Aerobic Endurance Among Female Students of Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Slovakia

One of the easiest ways to improve everyone’s physical and mental health is to choose appropriate physical activity (PA). Its general decline in recent decades has triggered an increase in civilisation-related diseases. Female college students neglect PA more than males. We compared the PA of female undergraduates at the University of P.J. Šafárik in Košice (UPJŠ) to their actual aerobic endurance based on our research. The study comprised 268 female students from four UPJŠ faculties. PA data were gathered using a short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Aerobic endurance capacity was determined using the results of a 20m beep-test, which was then converted to estimated VO2 max values. The results were comparable to other studies when converted to MET-min/week, but undergraduate students’ self-reported PA did not differ between faculties. A correlation exists between total (r = 0.24; p <0.05) and vigorous (r = 0.34; p <0.05) PA and 20m beep-test aerobic endurance. The level of PA among female UPJŠ students is in line with that observed in other studies following pandemic prevention measures. However, its lower intensity may affect aerobic performance. Future goals include increasing female students’ interest in moderate-and high-intensity PA to improve aerobic endurance and health.

Estimation of maximal oxygen uptake using the heart rate ratio method in male recreational football players.

Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) is associated with cardiovascular and metabolic health in the general population. The heart rate (HR) ratio method (HRratio) is a valid, easy and accessible method for estimating VO2max in well-trained subjects. This study examined the validity of using the HRratio to estimate VO2max in recreational football players in the untrained and trained states. Sixty-six participants (age 39.3 ± 5.8 years) were tested pre-training and 28 after 12 weeks, for VO2max assessment, running on a treadmill alternating speed (1 km h−1) and inclination (1%) increments every 30 s until exhaustion. Maximal HR (HRmax) was assessed directly with a multiple approach and estimated with selected equations. Resting HR (HRrest) was measured in supine position, after 15 min of rest. The HRratio method considers the product of HRmax/HRrest ratio by a theoretical proportionality factor (15 ml kg−1 min−1, TPF) to estimate VO2max. This population-specific proportionality factor (SPF) was 14.6 ± 2.6 ml kg−1 min−1. In the untrained state (n = 66), participants’ actual VO2max (41.3 ± 6.2 ml kg−1 min−1) was moderately lower (~ 2 ml kg−1 min−1) than the estimated VO2max using the TPF. A nonsignificant difference (0.7 ml kg−1 min−1) was found when the VO2max was estimated using the SPF. When using HRmax equations and the TPF, a small nonsignificant difference (~ 1.5 ml kg−1 min−1) was reported between actual and estimated VO2max. In the trained state (n = 28), the estimated VO2max values were not significantly different from the actual VO2max (44.2 ± 5.2 ml kg−1 min−1), with large effect sizes when considering TPF and estimated HRmax. The results of this study provide evidence of the applicability of HRratio in estimating VO2max in male adult/middle-aged recreational football players.

Which high-intensity interval training program is more effective in patients with coronary artery disease?

The aim of the study is to examine high-intensity interval training (HIIT) programs and a moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) program, which are frequently used in cardiac rehabilitation programs in terms of their effects on the functional capacity and quality of life of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The study included 20 patients with CAD (mean age, 60.95 ± 5.08 years) who had undergone revascularization surgery. The participants were randomized into HIIT-short, HIIT-long, and MICT groups. All the groups participated in a 24-session exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation program. The participants' exercise capacity was evaluated using the maximal exercise test and estimated VO2max values, functional capacity using the 6-min walk test (6MWT), and quality of life using the Short Form-36 survey and MacNew Heart Disease Health-related Quality of Life (MacNew) questionnaire. It was determined that the estimated VO2max values statistically significantly improved after treatment (P < 0.05), and both HIIT groups were superior to the MICT group (P < 0.05). Only the HIIT groups achieved the minimal clinically important difference in the 6MWT distance. After treatment, only the MICT group had a statistically significant improvement in quality of life. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in relation to the improvement in the 6MWT distance and quality of life (P > 0.05). The results of our study showed that both HIIT programs were superior to MICT in improving the maximal exercise capacity of patients with CAD, and the three programs had a similar effect on quality of life.

Assessing selected parameters of targeted fitness among youth training handball

Study aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate parameters of targeted fitness among youth training handball, within the framework of the project - Handball Training Centres. Furthermore, an attempt was made at quantitative assessment of youth obtaining the best results regarding targeted fitness parameters. Material and methods: The study participants comprised 294 girls (mean age 14.1 ± 0.29 years), and 304 boys (mean age-15.2 ± 0.31 years), practicing handball at 16 voivodeship Handball Training Centres in 2015-2018. The mean value of the girls’ body mass was - 56.38 ± 7.03 kg, body height - 165.59 ± 6.22 cm, while for boys - 71.87 ± 7.66 kg and 182.68 ± 5.47 cm, respectively. The mean BMI value for girls was -19.94 ± 1.7, and boys-- 21.06 ± 1.97. The girls’ training experience was 4.5 years, and for boys - 5.5 years. The study was based on trials of targeted fitness tests for young people training handball at Handball Training Centres. Results: The average values from the 30-m run for boys totalled 4.35 ± 0.23 s; while for girls, the values equalled - 4.7 ± 0.25 s. Average values from the envelope run with ball dribbling among boys - 24.13 ± 1.73 s; girls - 26.02 ± 1.66 s. Average value for the Beep-test among boys – 2,288 ± 165.99 m; girls - 1,805 ± 125.25 m. These are adequately estimated VO2max values of: 55.7 and 48.9 ml O2/kg/min. Conclusions: The best results of targeted fitness parameters were obtained by 22.7% of boys and 15.7% of girls. The subjects obtained the highest results in the following tests: vertical jump, supported push-up and the Beep-test. The worst results were noted for the following trials: 30-m run, envelope run with ball dribbling and 10x30-m shuttle run.

수정된 퀸즈칼리지 스텝 검사의 최대산소 섭취량에 대한 상관관계 분석

The purpose of this study was to find correlations among the Queen’s college step test, modified Queen’s college step test, graded exercise test to predict 85% VO2max. Sixteen University students volunteered for this study. All participants were assessed by three tests. The data were analyzed using one way repeated analysis of variance, and Pearson product moment correlation. The results revealed that estimated VO2max values were significantly different among the three assessments (p<.05). In post-hoc test, the Queen’s college step test value was higher than other two tests. However, there was no significant difference between modified Queen’s college step test and graded exercise test (p>.05). In addition, graded exercise test had a significant correlation with the modified Queen’s college step test (p<.05). Therefore, modified Queen’s college step test may be considered as an appropriate assessment tool to predict submaximal oxygen consumption of normal adults.

Validation of Submaximal Step Tests and the 6-Min Walk Test for Predicting Maximal Oxygen Consumption in Young and Healthy Participants.

Background: This study aimed to test the validity of three different submaximal tests (i.e., 3-min step test with 20.3-cm step box height (3MST20), 3-min step test with 30-cm step box height (3MST30), and 6-min walk test (6MWT)) in estimating maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) in young and healthy individuals. Methods: The 3MST20, 3MST30, 6MWT, as well as the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) were performed in 73 participants (37 men and 36 women; mean age: 30.8 ± 9.3 years). All participants visited the clinic three times in a random order for anthropometric measurements, three submaximal tests, and the VO2max test. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to construct the VO2max prediction equations for each submaximal test. Results: The prediction equations developed based on multiple regression analyses for each submaximal tests were as follows: 3MST20: VO2max = 86.0 − 10.9 × sex (male = 1, female = 2) − 0.4 × age − 0.1 × weight − 0.1 × heart rate recovery at 30 s (HRR30s); 3MST30: VO2max = 84.5 − 10.2 × sex (male = 1, female = 2) − 0.4 × age − 0.1 × weight − 0.1 × HRR30s; and 6MWT: VO2max = 61.1 − 11.1 × sex (male = 1, female = 2) − 0.4 × age − 0.2 × weight − 0.2 × (distance walked·10−1). The estimated VO2max values based on formulated equations were 37.0 ± 7.9, 37.3 ± 7.6, and 36.9 ± 7.9 mL∙kg−1∙min−1 derived from the 3MST20, 3MST30, and 6MWT, respectively. These estimated VO2max values were not significantly different from the measured VO2max value, 37.3 mL∙kg−1∙min−1. The estimated VO2max based on the 3MST20, 3MST30, and 6MWT results explained 73.4%, 72.2%, and 74.4% of the variances in the measured VO2max (p < 0.001), respectively. Conclusions: The 3MST20, 3MST30, and 6MWT were valid in estimating VO2max in relatively young and healthy Asian individuals.

Validity And Reliability Of The Ymca Submaximal Cycle Test Using An Electrically-braked Ergometer

PURPOSE: Electrically-braked ergometers allow a consistent power output regardless of variances in pedaling cadence. The present study sought to test the effect of using an electrically braked ergometer on the validity and reliability of the YMCA submaximal cycle test. METHODS: 22 male and 13 female subjects (19 - 31 y) completed one maximal treadmill test and four submaximal cycle tests (using the YMCA protocol) to measure and estimate VO2max, respectively. The submaximal trials consisted of two tests performed using a friction-braked ergometer (Monark) and two using an electrically-braked ergometer (Viasprint). All measured and estimated VO2max values were compared using repeated measures ANOVA and post-hoc tests using paired t-tests. Paired t-tests were also used to determine potential differences between repeated submaximal trials using the same ergometer. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to determine validity and reliability coefficients. RESULTS: The treadmill VO2max protocol yielded markedly higher (P < 0.05) values (50.3 ± 7.7 mL/kg/min) than the YMCA submax protocol using the friction-braked (40.8 ± 5.5 mL/kg/min) and electrically-braked ergometer (38.8 ± 4.5 mL/kg/min). Furthermore, estimated VO2max using the friction-braked ergometer was higher (P < 0.05) than that observed using the electrically-braked ergometer. There were similar reliability coefficients for the friction-braked (R = 0.63) and electrically-braked (R = 0.52) ergometers. Lastly, a moderately strong (R = 0.74) relationship was observed between actual VO2max and prediction error (VO2max- estimated VO2max). CONCLUSIONS: Both Monark and Viasprint ergometers underestimated VO2max in a sample of fit, young individuals. The magnitude of underestimation was greater in individuals with higher VO2max values. Using an electrically-braked ergometer did not improve either validity or reliability of VO2max estimates from the YMCA protocol.

The Analysis of Running Distances in National Teams in 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cup and Estimation of Oxygen Consumption Capacity Based on These Distances

This study aims to analyze running distances in national teams during 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cup and to propose a new program which estimates oxygen consumption capacity based on running distances. The data were evaluated by SPSS 22.0 statistical package program. The findings demonstrate that among teams participating in 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cup, the lowest average running distance and estimated VO2max values belong to Brazil with 7398.77 meters and 43.84 ml/kg/m, respectively. On the other hand, the highest average running distance and estimated VO2max values belong to Australia with 10598 meters and 67.69 ml/kg/m, respectively. The average running distance and estimated VO2max value in national teams participating in 2010 FIFA World Cup was 9635.54 meters and 60.52 ml/kg/m, while they were 9095.82 meters and 52 ml/kg/m in 2014 FIFA World Cup, respectively.

Determination of Aerobic Power Through a Specific Test for Taekwondo - A Predictive Equation Model.

Our aim was to verify the concurrent validity of a maximal taekwondo specific test (TST) to predict VO2max through an explanatory model. Seventeen elite male taekwondo athletes (age: 17.59 ± 4.34 years; body height: 1.72 ± 6.5 m; body mass: 61.3 ± 8.7 kg) performed two graded maximal exercise tests on different days: a 20 m multistage shuttle run test (SRT) and an incremental TST. We recorded test time, VO2max, ventilation, a heart rate and time to exhaustion. Significant differences were found between observed and estimated VO2max values [F (2, 16) = 5.77, p < 0.01]; post-hoc subgroup analysis revealed the existence of significant differences (p = 0.04) between the estimated VO2max value in the SRT and the observed value recorded in the TST (58.4 ± 6.4 ml/kg/min and 52.6 ± 5.2 ml/kg/min, respectively). Our analysis also revealed a moderate correlation between both testing protocols regarding VO2max (r = 0.70; p = 0.005), test time (r = 0.77; p = 0.02) and ventilation (r = 0.69; p = 0.03). There was no proportional bias in the mean difference (t = -1.04; p = 0.313), and there was a level of agreement between both tests. An equation/model was used to estimate VO2max during the TST based on the mean heart rate, test time, body height and mass, which explained 74.3% of the observed VO2max variability. A moderate correlation was found between the observed and predicted VO2max values in the taekwondo TST (r = 0.74, p = 0.001). Our results suggest that an incremental specific test estimates VO2max of elite taekwondo athletes with acceptable concurrent validity.

Abstract B09: Association between cardiorespiratory fitness and quality of life in breast cancer survivors

Abstract Impaired quality of life (QOL) is commonly experienced by breast cancer survivors (BCS) due to direct effects of cancer or associated treatments. BCS are more predisposed to compromised QOL components in the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive well being domains than the general population. QOL may be affected by cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF); CRF refers to the ability of the circulatory and respiratory systems to supply oxygen to skeletal muscles during sustained physical activity. Higher levels of CRF, measured by maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), are associated with higher QOL in healthy and diabetic populations, as improved CRF presumably eases activities of daily living and subsequently improves QOL. Limited research has examined the association between CRF and QOL in BCS. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between CRF, measured by estimated VO2max values (relative to body weight), and QOL, assessed by the FACT-B questionnaire, in BCS. Methods: Eligible participants (n = 45) were sedentary women diagnosed with stage I-III breast cancer, and who completed cancer-related treatments within 6 months prior to study enrollment in a larger ongoing exercise intervention trial. Baseline data were collected prior to initiating the exercise intervention. CRF was determined by estimated VO2max value (mL/kg/min) derived from the Single Stage Submaximal Treadmill Test, a 4-minute treadmill walking test where the treadmill speed is self-selected by the participant. Heart rate was obtained upon completion of the test and used to generate an estimated VO2max value using a validated equation. QOL was determined by the FACT-B questionnaire, a validated breast cancer specific questionnaire measuring four dimensions of QOL; physical well-being, social/family well-being, emotional well-being, and functional well-being. Each QOL dimension score was summed to yield an overall QOL score. The FACT-B questionnaire is scored out of a total 144 points from 0 (low QOL) to 144 (high QOL). A Spearman ranked-difference correlation test was used to determine the association between CRF and QOL. Independent t-tests were used to compare mean CRF and QOL between premenopausal and postmenopausal BCS. Results: Among BCS, mean estimated VO2max values were 29.13 ± 6.37 mL/kg/min, classified as average (45th percentile) according to the American College of Sports Medicine. Mean VO2max values for premenopausal BCS (n=24) was 31.01 ± 7.52 mL/kg/min and 27.22 ± 3.79 mL/kg/min for postmenopausal BCS (n=21); however these differences by menopausal status were not statistically significant (p&amp;gt;0.05). Mean FACT-B scores for BCS was 99.79 ± 21.02 (69th percentile). FACT-B mean scores for premenopausal BCS were 97.22 ± 21.23 (67th percentile) and 102.41 ± 21.75 (71st percentile) for postmenopausal BCS; however these differences by menopausal status were not statistically significant (p&amp;gt;0.05). Overall, there was a weak positive correlation between CRF and QOL (rs = 0.27, p&amp;lt;0.05). When stratified by menopausal status, we found a moderate positive correlation between CRF and QOL (rs = 0.48, p&amp;lt;0.05) in postmenopausal BCS. However, in premenopausal BCS, there was a weak non-significant correlation between CRF and QOL (rs = 0.36, p&amp;gt;0.05). Conclusion: In summary, QOL and CRF were weakly related, which differs from the stronger association between CRF and QOL in healthy and diabetic populations. However, this association between CRF and QOL was stronger in postmenopausal BCS, thus it may be valuable to further investigate the effect of menopausal status on CRF and QOL. Both CRF and QOL values were average and above average, respectively, in our sample which may explain the weak-moderate association between CRF and QOL. Nonetheless, due to the possible association between CRF and QOL, it may be necessary to consider investigating this association in a larger sample of BCS. Citation Format: Christina M. Dieli-Conwright, Breanna Orozco, Joanne Mortimer, Debu Tripathy, Darcy Spicer, Leslie Bernstein. Association between cardiorespiratory fitness and quality of life in breast cancer survivors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirteenth Annual AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research; 2014 Sep 27-Oct 1; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Can Prev Res 2015;8(10 Suppl): Abstract nr B09.

Comparison of Beep Test and Hoff Test for VO2max Estimation Among Soccer Players

PURPOSE: Examining cardiorespiratory fitness levels (CRF) among athletes are important to coaches and can be measured through a variety of field tests. CRF assessed directly through a maximal graded treadmill test in a laboratory setting is not realistic for most coaches to measure maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max). Thus a variety of field tests exist to estimate VO2max. The current study was designed to examine the validity of VO2max estimates from the Beep and Hoff test. METHODS: The Beep Test and soccer specific test, Hoff test, were conducted on male Division III soccer athletes. The Beep Test involves running a 20-m distance at a certain pace; pace progressively increased through stages and simulates a graded treadmill test. Two published equations and an iPhone application were used to estimate VO2max from the Beep Test. The Hoff test consists of running and changing directions while dribbling a soccer ball for 8 minutes; total distance covered was used to estimate VO2max. RESULTS: Comparing two published equations to estimate VO2max from the Beep Test was significant (51.06+4.81 vs 53.16+3.30 ml.kg-1.min-1, p<.05). When comparing estimated VO2max from the published equations and from the app (52.13+4.57 ml.kg-1.min-1), significant correlation coefficients were found (r=.906 and r=.913, p.05). Estimated VO2max values using the app and Hoff test provided fair results, r=.661, p<.05. CONCLUSIONS: Estimating VO2max using the Beep Test is a valid field test for coaches to gauge CRF levels. For coaches, using an app to predict VO2max is a feasible option; for a more accurate estimation published equations should be used to estimate CRF levels among athletes. Incorporating a sport specific test to estimate VO2max may require more practice and familiarity with the test itself to accurately estimate fitness levels.

G-39 Free Communication/Poster - Cycling

The purpose of this study was to present objective archival data of mall walkers (MW) exercising in their mall. METHODS: 315 MW (men: n=101, women: 214) from nine enclosed shopping centers were recruited to participate. After completing informed consents, a health history questionnaire, an activity questionnaire, blood pressure (BP), height, and weight were obtained. A subset (m=26, w=68) of the sample was recruited to examine whether MW walked at a cardiovascular (CV) training threshold (≥55%) of age-estimated HRmax (EMhr). Each subject walked a mile at a brisk MW-pace in the shortest time (TTime) on a previously measured course in their mall. Estimated VO2max values were derived from Rippe et al. (1988). A χ2 analysis was used to compare O (observed) to E (expected) values for the walk test.RESULTS: Estimated VO2max values varied inversely with age. Most (84%) walked at an intensity (EMhr) high enough to achieve a CV training effect, at paces at least 55% of their age-estimated HRmax (p<0.001). Of this healthy subset, >90% reported walking at this intensity ≥ 3x / week. CONCLUSION: This was a unique in situ study of MW health and exercise characteristics. Many MW walk at HR intensities sufficient for a CV training effect. Low VO2max values may be indicative of the presence of degenerative diseases normally attributed to the aging process. When asked why they walked in the mall, 95.2% (N=315) reported that they walked for the benefits of health and wellness, ie, exercise is medicine. This study should be replicated in a clinical setting.

Validity of the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 for Direct Measurement or Indirect Estimation of Maximal Oxygen Uptake in Female Soccer Players

To evaluate the validity of the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIR1) for the direct assessment and the indirect estimation of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) in female soccer players compared with a maximal laboratory treadmill test (LTT). Eighteen female soccer players (21.5 ± 3.4 y, 165.6 ± 7.5 cm, 63.3 ± 7.4 kg; mean ± SD) completed an LTT and a YYIR1 in random order (1 wk apart). Their VO2max was directly measured via portable spirometry during both tests and indirectly estimated from a published non-gender-specific formula (YYIR1-F1). The measured VO2max values in LTT and YYIR1 were 55.0 ± 5.3 and 49.9 ± 4.9 mL · kg-1 · min-1, respectively, while the estimated VO2max values from YYIR1-F1 corresponded to 45.2 ± 3.4 mL · kg-1 · min-1. Large positive correlations between the VO2max values from YYIR1 and LTT (r = .83, P < .001, 90% confidence interval = .64-.92) and YYIR1-F1 and LTT (r = .67, P = .002, .37-.84) were found. However, the YYIR1 significantly underestimated players' VO2max by 9.4% compared with LTT (P < .001) with Bland-Altman 95% limits of agreement ranging from -20.0% to 1.4%. A significant underestimation from the YYIR1-F1 (P < .001) was also identified (17.8% with Bland-Altman 95% limits of agreement ranging from -31.8% to -3.8%). The YYIR1 and YYIR1-F1 are not accurate methods for the direct assessment or indirect estimation of VO2max in female soccer players. The YYIR1-F1 lacks gender specificity, which might have been the reason for its larger error.

Cardiovascular Responses During a Submaximal Exercise Test in Patients with Parkinson's Disease

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) are physically less active than controls, and autonomic dysfunction may contribute to this sedentary lifestyle. Specifically, an altered cardiovascular response to physical effort may restrict physical activities. To assess the cardiovascular responses to a submaximal exercise test in PD patients and controls, 546 sedentary PD patients and 29 sedentary healthy controls performed the Åstrand-Rhyming submaximal cycle exercise test. Average heart rate was used to estimate maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max). Variables that may affect submaximal activity in PD patients, including disease severity, fatigue, and level of physical activity in daily life, were recorded. Fewer PD patients (46%) completed the submaximal exercise test successfully than the controls (86%). The estimated VO2max of patients with a successful test was 34% lower than the controls (p < 0.001). Multivariate regression analyses revealed that higher body weight, lower systolic blood pressure, lower resting heart rate, and lower maximal workload were associated with an increased risk of an inadequate heart rate increase during submaximal exercise (R2 = 27%). PD patients with a successful submaximal exercise test had lower estimated VO2max values than controls. Importantly, half of the PD patients had an inadequate heart rate increase during submaximal exercise, which was likely caused by cardiac sympathetic denervation leading to autonomic dysfunction. PD patients should therefore be screened to identify their limitations in exercise performance. Caution should be applied when prescribing beta blockers, as they might limit physical activities further.

A re-appraisal of the reliability of the 20 m multi-stage shuttle run test

Most studies that have set out to quantify the test-retest reliability of the multi-stage shuttle run test (MSSRT) have typically used inappropriate statistics (correlation coefficients) and/or one of two possible calculation methods for deriving predictions of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), and have not considered the impact of habituation on performance in the MSSRT and whether its reliability improves beyond a single repeat trial. In this context, the aim of this study was to assess the reliability of the MSSRT over three trials. Thirty-five healthy and active university games players (22 males and 13 females) performed the MSSRT on three occasions, 1 week apart. Individual total numbers of completed shuttles were recorded and estimated VO2max values were derived via established equation and table methods. Analysis revealed that the overall mean VO2max score from the equation method (52.5 +/- 7.8 ml kg(-1) min(-1)) was significantly higher than that for the table (46.9 +/- 8.9 ml kg(-1) min(-1)), whilst the mean trial 2 and trial 3 scores were significantly higher than that for trial 1, but not different to each other. The Limits of Agreement for the table method were -1.4 +/- 5.0 (trial 1-trial 2) and 0.0 +/- 5.5 ml kg(-1) min(-1) (trial 2-trial 3), and for the equation method -1.1 +/- 4.7 (trial 1-trial 2) and 0.0 +/- 5.0 ml kg(-1) min(-1) (trial 2-trial 3). These results suggest that systematic bias is eliminated after the first trial (due to habituation), but a considerable amount of random error remains, regardless of the type of score calculated. Hence, among our sample, the MSSRT does not appear to be reliable enough for the purpose of monitoring changes in VO2max due to non-random reasons.

The Effects of Chest Constriction at Rest on Aerobic Capacity

PURPOSE: This was a pilot study investigating whether an externally applied thoracic constriction band at rest over a four-week period, can improve aerobic capacity without having to perform aerobic exercise. METHODS: 15 sedentary college age individuals (between 18–35 yrs) were studied over a period of 4 weeks during which they participated in their normal everyday activities. Participants completed an activity questionnaire, a Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (Par-Q) and an aerobic capacity (VO2max) test. VO2max was measured Pre and Post 4 weeks using the 1.5-mile run/walk field test. Participants were instructed to cover the specified distance in the fastest time possible. A VO prediction equation (VO2max (ml kg−1. min−1) = 3.5 + 483/ (time in minutes)) was used. Following pre testing, participants were randomly placed into one of two groups: (1) Chest Wall Restriction Group (CWR) (n = 10), or (2) Control (Non-Chest Wall Restriction Group (N-CWR)) (n=5). Each participant in the Chest Wall Restriction Group (CWR) had their chest wall restricted with the use of an elastic strap for 1.5 hours 5 days/week. Strap widths ranged from 10 to 15 cm adjusted to fit just beneath the axillae and around the chest to envelop the rib cage. It is worth noting that this apparatus does not prevent the chest wall from expanding like earlier studies, but offers elastic eccentric resistance for the inspiratory muscles to work against. RESULTS: A significant 11 ± .07% improvement in aerobic capacity was observed in the experimental group (P <0.05). Estimated VO2max values for CWR increased from 27.92 ±5.98 to 31.46 ± 6.42, while the N-CWR group showed no significant change (30.22 ± 5.67 to 30.51 ±5.61). Units for VO2max are shown in ml.min−1. kg−1 ± SD. CONCLUSION: This pilot study shows the potential benefit of wearing an externally applied thoracic constriction band at rest. Sedentary individuals with low exercise tolerance may be able to increase their aerobic capacity without performing aerobic exercise.

Method Agreement between Two Field Measures of Aerobic Fitness in Youth

0924 PURPOSE: Physical education programs using the FITNESSGRAM youth fitness battery (Cooper Institute, 1999) can use either the PACER 20m shuttle run test or the mile run test to estimate aerobic capacity. The purpuse of this study was to examine the agreement between the PACER test (PACER) and the Mile Run test (MILE) and to evaluate the criterion validity of the tests compared to a laboratory-based measure of aerobic capacity. METHODS: A sample of 473 7th and 8th graders (271 males and 202 females) completed both the PACER and the MILE under controlled field conditions. A subsample of 48 participants (31 males and 17 females) completed a maximum aerobic capacity test on a treadmill. Correlations among the different tests were computed to reflect overall agreement among the methods. Estimated VO2 max values from the field tests were compared to the measured VO2 max values using a repeated measures ANOVA. Classification agreement with the FITNESSGRAM criterion referenced standards were also performed to determine the impact of any differences on the resulting feedback messages delivered to children. RESULTS: Correlations with the measured VO2 max value were moderate for both the MILE (r = 0.64) and the PACER (r = 0.51). The repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant differences between the estimated VO2 max and the measured VO2max values [F(1,471) = 69.67, p < .001]. Both field tests significantly overestimated the measured VO2 max value for males (PACER: ES = 0.38; MILE: ES = 0.69) and females (PACER: ES = 0.71; MILE: ES = 0.89). The overall agreement between the two field tests was good but the PACER yielded significantly lower estimates of VO2 max (difference = 1.6 ml/kg/min; ES = 0.30). The classification agreement based on meeting or not meeting the FITNESSGRAM criterion referenced standards were 82% for males and 79% for females. CONCLUSIONS: The two field assessments of aerobic fitness in the FITNESSGRAM provide similar estimates of aerobic capacity but both overestimate aerobic capacity in middle school youth. Supported in part by a grant from Research Consortium – AAHPERD.

Elite and Nonelite Soccer Players: Preseasonal Physical and Physiological Characteristics

The purpose of this study was to (a) describe physical and functional characteristics of elite Serbian soccer players, and (b) make comparisons with nonelite counterparts to identify any relationships between results from the physiological tests and competition level. One of the teams in the study (Squad A; nA = 30) competed in the professional First National League, and the other team (Squad B; nB = 30) played in the amateur Third Division. Physiological measurements were made of 60 players during the final week of preparatory training for competition. Subjects from Squad A were older (24.1 ± 2.5vs. 21.8 ± 2.9 years, p < 0.01) and more experienced (8.1 ± 3.2vs. 4.1 ± 2.9 years, p < 0.01), compared to players in Squad B. Elite players from Squad A had significantly higher estimated VO2 max values, compared with subjects in Squad B (52.9 ± 9.1vs. 45.1 ± 5.5ml·kg−1·min−1, p < 0.01). In addition, the highest heart rate frequencies during the last minute of the 20-min shuttle run test were lower in elite players (182 ± 6vs. 190 ± 8 beats·min−1, p<0.01). Vertical jump height was significantly higher in Squad A (49.9 ± 7.5vs. 43.9 ± 6.9cm, p < 0.01), and estimated percentage of fast muscle fibers (fast twitch) were higher in Squad A as compared to Squad B (64.1 ± 6.1vs. 56.9 ± 7.9%, p < 0.01). The results of the present study demonstrate a strong relationship of aerobic fitness and anaerobic power with performance at the elite level of soccer.

Evaluation of a step-test for assessing the cardiorespiratory capacity of workers in Thailand: a pilot study.

The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the accuracy of a simple step-test procedure supplemented by the measurement of heart rate (HR) (STEP1) to assess the cardiorespiratory capacity i.e., maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) of Thai workers. The subjects comprised 18 men and 17 women. Their ages varied from 19 to 20 years and all were physically active. The subjects performed three tests: a submaximal incremental cycle-ergometer (CYCLE) test supplemented by HR recordings and respiratory gas exchange, and two step-tests (STEP1 and STEP2). In the STEP1 test HR was recorded continuously. The STEP2 test included the measurements of HR and respiratory gas exchange. For the male subjects the mean difference of the estimated VO2 max values obtained from the CYCLE and STEP1 test was 15% (p < 0.05). With the female subjects the mean VO2 max values were equal when predicted according to the CYCLE and STEP1 tests. The present STEP1 test is not sufficiently accurate to predict the VO2 max of Thai men. The results of this pilot study need to be confirmed with larger samples of subjects with various backgrounds in terms of individual characteristics and occupations.

Norm-Referenced and Criterion-Referenced Validity of the One-Mile Run and PACER in College Age Individuals

The first purpose of this study was to determine the norm-referenced predictive validity of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2) max estimated from the progressive aerobic cardiovascular endurance run (PACER, FITNESSGRAM®; Cooper Institute for Aerobic Research, Dallas, TX) performance by 3 separate formulas: the Leger, Mercier, Gadoury, and Lambert (1988) 8- to 19-year-old equation; the Leger et al. adult equation; and the Ramsbottom, Brewer, and Williams (1988) equation. Norm-referenced intraclass stability reliability coefficients (n = 19) were determined to be .96 for PACER and estimated VO2 max values. Only the VO2 max values estimated from the Leger et al. adult equation (47.29 ± 7.02 vs. 50.45 ± 8.01 rnL · kg-1 · min-1 measured; p < .0001) were shown to be valid (r = .82; standard error of estimate [SEE] = 4.59; Error = 5.58; percentage of participants whose measured VO2 max fell within ± 4.5 mL · kg-1 · min-1 of estimated VO2 max = 59.7; N = 60 female participants ± 59 male participants). The second purpose was to cross-validate the Cureton, Sloninger, O'Bannon, Black, and McCormack (1995) equation for the estimation of VO2 max from the one-mile run (1-MR). The results (estimated VO2 max = 48.06 ± 6.57 vs. 50.45 ± 8.01 rnL · kg-1 · min-1 measured; p < .0001; r= .82; SEE = 4.53; Error = 5.27; percentage = 61.7; N = 50 female ± 44 male participants) indicated a norm-referencedpredictive validity similar to the Leger et al. adult PACER equation. There was no significant difference between the VO2max estimated by the Leger et al. 8- to 19-year-old and the Cureton et al. equations. Correlations between 1-MR time and measured VO2 max (r = .78) and PACER laps and measured 90, maw (r = 33) supported norm-referenced concurrent validity in this population. The third purpose was to determine the criterion-referenced reliability and validity of the PACER and 1-MR. Criterion-referenced reliability indicated a proportion of agreement (P) of .95 and a modified Kappa (K) of .90 for PACER laps and estimated VO2 max. A .88 proportion of correct classification decisions (c) with a phi coefficient (ϕ) of .08 was determined for criterion-referenced validity of the Leger et al. adult equation. Comparable validity coefficients for the Cureton et al. equation were c = .97 and ϕ = .65. Criterion-referenced equivalence reliability (P) was .90 with a Kq of .80 for the 1-MR and PACER. It was concluded that (a) the Leger et al. (1988) adult equation is the preferred equation to use to estimate VO2 max from PACER scores for college aged individuals; (b) the Cureton et al. (1995) equation is valid for estimating VO2 max in college students from the 1-MR; and (c) the FITNESSGRAM® (Cooper Institute for Aerobics Research, 1992) criterion-referenced standards using data from the Cureton et al. and Leger et al. adult equations were both reliable and valid in this population. The 1-MR and the PACER may be used interchangeably in this age group to assess cardiovascular fitness either from performance scores or estimated VO2 max if the Leger et al. adult equation is used for PACER VO2 max prediction.