Prediction of Maximal Aerobic Power in Adolescents from Cycle Ergometry

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to validate an existing V̇O2max prediction equation for a graded cycle ergometer test, using adolescents as subjects (14). Healthy, active males (n = 19) and females (n = 19), ages 13–18 years old, pedaled at a rate of 60 rpm until exhaustion, with resistance increasing 15 W every minute. Oxygen uptake, ventilation, and respiratory exchange ratio were measured continuously. A significant correlation was found between predicted and actual V̇O2max for both male (r = 0.90, p < .001) and female (r = 0.91, p < .001) adolescents. For all subjects combined the correlation was r = 0.96, p < .001 with an SEE = 198 ml · min−1. Mean differences between actual and predicted V̇O2max values were 1.0 ± 0.7 ml · kg−1 · min−1 and 2.0 ± 0.7 ml · kg−1 · min−1 for the males and females, respectively (2.1% and 5.2% difference). The data indicate these cycle ergometry equations are valid for prediction of V̇O2max in male and female adolescents.