A submaximal all-extremity exercise test to predict maximal oxygen consumption

Purpose: Submaximal aerobic exercise testing is utilized with a variety of populations to assess fitness level and predict maximal oxygen uptake ((V) over dot O-2peak when a maximal test is not possible or preferable. Many submaximal tests have been developed on traditional exercise equipment, such as the treadmill and the cycle ergometer, but are not available for newer equipment such as an all-extremity ergometer. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a submaximal exercise test using the Pro II Power Trainer, an all-extremity ergometer, in women ages 30-60 without disability and with varying fitness levels. A secondary purpose was to compare (V) over dot O-2peak values achieved during the all-extremity maximal test and the treadmill test. Methods and Results: A linear regression equation was developed to predict (V) over dot O-2peak from submaximal data using heart rates and power output at the sixth and ninth minutes of the submaximal test. The linear regression derived for the submaximal all-extremity test was (V) over dot O-2peak L . min(-1) = -0.01 (age in years) - 0.0029(HR 1) - 0.0099(HR2) - 0.0029(PO1) + 0.0151(PO2) + 3.010. Predicted residual sum of squares of the linear equation revealed an R-2 value of 0.722 and standard error of estimate of 0.216 L . min(-1). Treadmill (V) over dot O-2peak values correlated strongly with all-extremity (V) over dot O-2peak values (r = 0.918) and were not significantly different (P < 0.05). Conclusion: A similar submaximal test needs to be developed for field estimates Of (V) over dot O-2peak for subpopulations of individuals with physical disabilities such as rheumatoid arthritis, head or spinal cord injury, cerebral vascular accident, multiple sclerosis, amputation, and cerebral palsy.