A Maximal Cycle Test with Good Validity and High Repeatability in Adults of All Ages

Abstract

In 11 680 individuals (18–85 years) maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max) was estimated indirectly in a maximal cycle test using a prediction model developed in a young population (15–28 years). A subsample of 182 individuals (23–77 years) underwent 2 maximal cycle tests with VO₂max estimated indirectly in both tests and measured directly in one test. Agreement between the direct measurement and the indirect estimate of VO₂max and repeatability of the indirect estimates of VO₂max were examined by Bland-Altman plots, limits of agreement (LOA) and coefficient of repeatability (CR). The indirect method (mean VO₂max=3 132 ml · min⁻¹) underestimated VO₂max as compared to the direct method (mean VO₂max=3 190 ml · min⁻¹) in men (bias: 58 ml · min⁻¹ (95% LOA−450 and 565)) and overestimated VO₂max in women (mean VO₂max=2 328 vs. 2 258 ml · min⁻¹, bias: − 70 ml · min⁻¹ (95% LOA−468 and 328)). The mean difference between the 2 indirect estimates was non-significant (men: − 11.9 ml · min⁻¹, women: 18.3 ml · min⁻¹) with a CR of 279 ml · min⁻¹ (8.9%) in men and 274 ml · min⁻¹ (11.7%) in women. The validity of the indirect method was good despite minor sex-specific bias. Owing to this bias we suggest a new prediction model of VO₂max. The maximal cycle test was highly repeatable.

Key words

cardiorespiratory fitness - reproducibility - exercise test - physical fitness - cycle ergometer - measurement

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