Comparison of maximal oxygen uptake values determined by predicted and actual methods

Abstract

Twenty-four male subjects aged 17–33 were given three direct tests of maximal oxygen uptake and one indirect test. The direct tests were those of Mitchell, Sproule, and Chapman (treadmill); Taylor, Buskirk, and Henschel (treadmill); and Åstrand (bicycle ergometer). The indirect test was the Åstrand-Ryhming nomogram (bicycle ergometer) employing heart rate response to submaximal work. In addition, the Johnson, Brouha, and Darling physical fitness test was administered. The two treadmill tests and the indirect test yielded significantly higher mean values than did the direct bicycle test. However no other significant differences in mean values occurred. Correlation coefficients between the various oxygen uptake tests as well as the fitness test were all found to be significant (.62–.83), i.e., greater than zero. No correlation obtained proved to be significantly greater than any other. The results indicate that direct treadmill tests, employing greater muscle mass, yield higher maximal oxygen uptake values (8%) than does the direct bicycle ergometer test. The Åstrand-Ryhming nomogram appears to produce a good estimation of maximal oxygen uptake, in a population unaccustomed to cycling. erobic capacity; exercise; heart rate Submitted on September 17, 1964