Development and Validation of a One-Mile Treadmill Walk Test to Predict Peak Oxygen Uptake in Healthy Adults Ages 40 to 79 Years

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the Rockport one-mile walk test equation to predict maximal oxygen uptake was valid for application to treadmill walking. When the Rockport model was found to be inappropriate, a new regression model was developed for predicting peak oxygen uptake [Formula: see text] from a one-mile treadmill walk. 304 healthy volunteers ages 40 to 79 years (mean age = 57.6 years, 154 men and 150 women) completed a [Formula: see text] test and a one-mile treadmill walk. Stepwise regression was used to build a model for the relationship between [Formula: see text]and a variety of predictor variables in a sub-sample development group (n = 154). This new model was then applied to a sub-sample validation group (n = 150). The new equation produced a correlation of 0.87, SEE = 4.7 ml • kg−1 • min−1 with a mean residual of 0.96 ml • kg−1 • min−1. The equation for predicting [Formula: see text] developed in this investigation provides a means of assessing [Formula: see text] that is easy to administer, allows for careful supervision of subjects, and can be completed at a low financial and temporal cost. Key words:[Formula: see text]estimation, sub-maximal exercise testing, fitness, aerobic power, Treadwalk test