CONCURRENT VALIDITY OF TWO SUBMAXIMAL BICYCLE EXERCISE TESTS

IN PREDICTING MAXIMAL OXYGEN CONSUMPTION

A Thesis
Submitted to the Graduate Faculty of the
University of South Alabama
in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the Degree of
Master of Science
In
The Department of Health, Physical Education, and Leisure Studies
By
Wendy E. Davis
B.S., University of South Alabama, 2002
August 2004
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UMI Number: 1420542
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THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
CONCURRENT VALIDITY OF TWO SUBMAXIMAL BICYCLE EXERCISE TESTS
IN PREDICTING MAXIMAL OXYGEN CONSUMPTION
BY
Wendy E. Davis
A Thesis
Submitted to the Graduate Faculty of the
University of South Alabama
in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of
Master of Science
m
The Department of Health, Physical Education, and Leisure Studies
August 2004
Approved: Date:
6 .
Chair of Thesis Co aleski, Ph.D.
Committee Member: Robert JfHeitman. Ph
Committee Member: PhilkBT M. Norr
//now
Committee Member: Albert WyPearsall, M.D
Chair of the Departm^t: Frecterick M.
Director of Gradu dies: Willi
Dean of the Graduat.56hool: Judy P. Stout, Ph.D.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I would foremost like to thank my advisor. Dr. John Kovaleski, for giving me his
invaluable help with this research and throughout the editing process. His experience
within the field of research and Exercise Science is boundless, and has proved to be of
great benefit to me. Throughout my time as an undergraduate and graduate student I have
grown to learn so much and I am very appreciative for that.
I would also like to thank my thesis committee. Dr. Robert Heitman, Dr. Phillip
Norrell, and Dr. Albert Pearsall for their help with the review of this thesis and their
suggestions for the research design.
I would like to thank my parents, Campbell and Irene Davis, who have given me
their endless support throughout my time here at the University of South Alabama. It is
thanks to their continuing faith in me that I have been able to realize my goals and
achieve them.
11
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
LIST OF TABLES......................................................................................................................v
ABSTRACT................................................................................................................................vi
CHAPTER I - ANALYSIS OF THE PROBLEM .................................................................1
Introduction............................................................................. 1
Theoretical Rationale.................................................................................................... 2
Statement of the Problem..............................................................................................3
Research Hypotheses.................................................................................................... 3
Null Hypotheses.............................................................................................................4
Assumptions................................................................................................................... 4
Delimitations.................................................................................................................. 4
Limitations...................................................................................................................... 5
Definition of Terms........................................................................................................5
CHAPTER II - REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE.............................................................. 7
Introduction.....................................................................................................................7
The Astrand-Ryhming Submaximal Test ............ 10
The YMCA Test.......................................................................................................... 14
Alternate Testing Procedures..................................................................................... 15
Summary .............................................................................................................. 17
CHAPTER III - PROCEDURE FOR COLLECTING DATA ..... 19
Experimental Design................................................................................................... 19
Subjects......................................................................................................................... 19
Inclusion Criteria.........................................................................................................19
Instrumentation............................................................................................................20
Procedures.................................................................................................................... 20
Submaximal Testing...................................................................................... 21
Maximal Oxygen Consumption Test...........................................................22
111
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Statistical Analysis.......................................................................................................23
CHAPTER IV - RESULTS....................... 25
Anthropometric Characteristics........................................................... 25
Physiological Data.......................................................................................................25
Correlational Findings................................................................................................ 26
CHAPTER V - DISCUSSION................................................................................................ 28
REFERENCE LIST........................................................................................... 33
APPENDICES.......................................................................................................................... 36
Appendix A; University of South Alabama Consent To Be A Research
Subject................................................................................................... 36
Appendix B: Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q).................... 40
Appendix C; YMCA Bicycle Ergometer Protocol.................................................41
Appendix D; Raw Demographic Information......................................................... 42
Appendix E: Raw Data for the Exercise Tests........................................................ 43
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH.................................................................................................. 44
IV
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LIST OF TABLES
Table Page
1. Subject Anthropometric Characteristics........................................................................... 25
2. Oxygen Consumption Values (mL-kg"^-min'') for the Maximal Oxygen
Consumption (VOiMax) and predicted (YMCA and Astrand-Ryhming) Bicycle
Ergometer Tests................................................................................................................... 26
3. Correlation Coefficients and Standard Error of Estimates (SEE) among the
Maximal Oxygen Consumption (VOaMax), Astrand-Ryhming, and the YMCA
Bicycle Tests......................................................................................................................... 27
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ABSTRACT
Davis, Wendy E., M.S., University of South Alabama, August 2004. Concurrent Validity
of Two Submaximal Bicycle Exercise Tests in Predicting Maximal Oxygen
Consumption. Chair of Committee: John E. Kovaleski, Ph.D.
This study determined the validity of predicting V02Max from the Astrand-
Ryhming and YMCA submaximal aerobic fitness tests. Twenty-three male and female
active college students completed testing. Significant Pearson Product Moment
Correlations were observed between the VOaMax and the Astrand-Ryhming (r = .56, p =
.006) and YMCA (r = .83,p < .001) tests. A significant correlation (r = .73,p < .001)
was also observed between the Astrand-Ryhming and YMCA tests. The t-test comparison
between the correlation coefficients derived from the YMCA and VOiMax tests, and
Astrand-Ryhming and V02Max tests was significant (t (22) = 2.81, p < .05). This research
demonstrates that the use of submaximal bicycle testing can be used to accurately
estimate V02max in physically active individuals. The findings suggest that V02max
estimated from the YMCA test provides a more accurate estimate of V02max as compared
to the Astrand-Ryhming test.
VI
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CHAPTER I
ANALYSIS OF THE PROBLEM
Introduction
Maximal oxygen consumption testing (V02Max) is commonly administered in
exercise physiology laboratories to directly measure aerobic power (American College of
Sports Medicine, 2000; Astrand and Rybming, 1954; McArdle, Katcb and Katcb, 2001;
Metz and Alexander, 1967; Siconolfi, Cullinane, Carleton and Thompson, 1982). Tests to
predict maximal oxygen consumption (V0 2 Max) or aerobic fitness use submaximal
exercise heart rate during a standardized regimen performed on a bicycle ergometer
(American College of Sports Medicine, 2000; Astrand and Rybming, 1954; Golding,
Myers and Sinning, 1989). Submaximal exercise testing serves as an alternative to
maximal testing in situations where direct measurement of V0 2 Max cannot be performed.
The Astrand-Ryhming and YMCA Bicycle Tests are the two most popular submaximal
aerobic fitness tests administered in exercise physiology laboratories and fitness settings
(American College of Sports Medicine, 2000; Golding et al., 1989; Jessup, Riggs,
Lambert and Miller, 1977; Legge and Banister, 1986; Macsween, 2001; Terry, Tolson,
Johnson and Jessup, 1977; Williams, 1975). Estimating V02Max has been shown to be
beneficial to competitive athletes who are looking to improve training and to the general
population in various clinical settings who are attempting to improve physical fitness.
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Submaximal aerobic exercise testing applies the essentially linear relationship
between heart rate and VOaMax during increasing intensities of light to relatively heavy
exercise (Astrand and Ryhming, 1954; McArdle et al., 2001). The accuracy of the
V0 2 Max prediction from a submaximal heart rate can be considerably limited by the
accuracy of the linearity of the heart rate-oxygen consumption relationship (Golding et
al., 1989; McArdle et al., 2001). VOaMax predicted from submaximal heart rate generally
falls within 10 to 20% of the persons actual value. These prediction tests can effectively
screen and classify individuals for aerobic fitness (McArdle et al., 2001).
Theoretical Rationale
The basic physiological aim of submaximal exercise testing is to determine the
heart rate response to one or more workloads and to use the results to predict VOaMax
(American College of Sports Medicine, 2000; Legge and Banister, 1986). Maximal tests
have the disadvantage of requiring participants to exercise to the point of volitional
fatigue and might require physician supervision (American College of Sports Medicine,
2000). Maximal exercise testing, however, offers increased sensitivity in aerobic power
measurement by direct measurement of VOaMax (Macsween, 2001; McArdle et al., 2001).
To date, there have been no systematic studies that have compared the concurrent
validity of the Astrand-Ryhming and YMCA submaximal bicycle exercise tests in
predicting VOaMax in the same individual. The Astrand-Ryhming test is limited by a
consistent under-prediction, and many studies have assessed this inaccuracy from
comparison of predicted with observed values of V02Max (Legge and Banister, 1986;
Terry et al., 1977). This underestimation of V02Max may be accounted for by deriving a
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V0 2 Max from submaximal exercise test data using nomogram-based algorithms and that
the work performed is only up to 70% of an individuals age-predicted maximum heart
rate. Whereas, the YMCA test derives a V02Max from submaximal data by using linear
extrapolation to 85% of the subjects age-predicted maximal heart rate. Thus, it was
timely that an investigation be made to determine which of the two submaximal exercise
tests provides a more accurate estimate of V0 2 Max-
Statement of the Problem
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between estimated
maximal oxygen consumption (V0 2 Max) measured from two standard submaximal
aerobic fitness tests and actual V0 2 Max measured during cycle ergometer testing.
Research Hvnotheses
1. There will be a significant positive correlation between the YMCA submaximal
bicycle test and V0 2 Max.
2. There will be a significant positive correlation between the Astrand-Ryhming
submaximal bicycle test and V0 2 Max.
3. There will be a significant difference between the correlation of the YMCA
submaximal bicycle test and V02Max and the correlation of the Astrand-Ryhming
submaximal bicycle test and V0 2 Max.
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Null Hypotheses
1. There will be no signifieant correlation between the YMCA submaximal bicycle
test and VOiMax,
2. There will be no significant correlation between the Astrand-Ryhming
submaximal bicycle test and VOaMax.
3. There will be no significant difference between the correlation of the YMCA
submaximal bicycle test and VOaMax and the correlation of the Astrand-Ryhming
submaximal bicycle test and V0 2 Max,
Assumptions
The assumptions of this study included:
1) Linearity of the heart rate-oxygen consumption relationship.
2) Similar maximum heart rates (HR^ax) for individuals of the same age.
3) Assumed constant economy and mechanical efficiency during exercise.
4) Day-to-day heart rate variation averages about 5 beats min^during submaximal
exercise.
5) Subject motivation to give maximal effort during the VOiMax test.
Delimitations
1) This study was delimited to subjects recruited from the University of South
Alabama Physical Education and Athletics programs.
2) This study was delimited to subjects between 19 and 25 years of age.
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3) This study was delimited to subjects who were physically active, as evidenced by
cycling or running a minimum of 3 to 5-days per week for the previous 6 months
or participation in competitive running or cycling athletic events.
4) This study was delimited to the Astrand-Ryhming, YMCA and a maximal bicycle
ergometer test.
Limitations
1) This study was limited to subjects that were not randomly selected and who
were volunteers.
2) This study was limited by the number of subjects available for study.
Definition of Terms
Astrand-Rhvming Bicvcle Test - A submaximal single-stage 6-minute exercise protocol
that uses a nomogram to predict VOaMax from heart rate response to a submaximal
workload (Astrand and Ryhming, 1954).
Bicvcle Ergometer - An exercise device that allows the amount and rate of a person's
physical work to be controlled and measured.
Criteria for Determining Maximal Oxygen Consumption - Demonstration of a leveling
off or peaking over in oxygen consumption with increasing exercise intensity, a
respiratory exchange ratio greater than 1.15, and a failure of heart rate to increase with
increases in exercise intensity (American College of Sports Medicine, 2000; McArdle et
al., 2001).
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Maximal Exercise Test - A graded exercise test in which workloads are incrementally
applied to a maximum as the subject reaches a point of volitional and/or physiological
fatigue. Used to measure VOiMax-
Maximum Heart Rate - The highest heart rate (HRmax) value one can achieve in an all-out
exercise effort to the point of exhaustion. Measured in beats min'^
Maximal Oxvgen Consumption - The maximal capacity for oxygen consumption
(VOiMax) by the body during maximal exertion. Serves as a measure of aerobic capacity
and aerobic fitness and is expressed as milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body weight
per minute (mL-kg'*-min'^) (McArdle et al., 2001).
Submaximal Exercise Test - Graded exercise that is terminated at some predetermined
submaximal heart rate or workload; used to predict VOiMax-
Workload - The exercise resistance, measured in watts (W), which is applied to the
bicycle ergometer.
YMCA Bicvcle Test - Two to four, 3-minute stages of continuous exercise, designed to
raise the steady-state heart rate between 110 beatsmin"' and 85% of the age-predicted
maximal heart rate for at least two consecutive stages (American College of Sports
Medicine, 2000; Golding et al., 1989).
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CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
Introduction
Maximal oxygen uptake or VOiMax is widely accepted as the primary
physiological variable that best defines the efficiency or capacity of the cardiovascular
and respiratory systems. This variable, thought to be synonymous with the term
cardiorespiratory fitness, has been designated by some investigators as the most
important criterion of physical fitness (Hartung, Blancq, Lally and Krock, 1995;
Wilmore, 1967). Aerobic capacity is measured by determining the bodys maximal rate
of oxygen consumption (V02Max)- This process is dependent on the cardiorespiratory
systems ability to absorb oxygen via the lungs, deliver oxygenated blood to the working
muscles and the muscle's cells ability to utilize the oxygen in energy production (Hartung
et al., 1995).
The assessment of VOiMax is typically made in a laboratory setting with the
individual performing a maximal graded exercise test with the indirect calorimetric
analysis of the expired gases using computerized instrumentation (Latin and Elias, 1993;
Hartung et al., 1995; Storer, Davis and Caiozzo, 1990). The determination of VOiMax can
be made using a variety of exercises that activate the bodys large muscle groups,
provided the intensity and duration of effort are sufficient to maximize aerobic energy
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transfer. For this reason, the bicycle and treadmill are the two most commonly used
laboratory methods for determining maximal oxygen uptake (Hermansen and Saltin,
1969).
Maximal oxygen consumption assessment involves the use of expensive
metabolic analysis equipment and requires trained personnel to administer and conduct
the testing (Astrand and Ryhming, 1954; Coleman, 1976; Legge and Banister, 1986;
Macsween, 2001; Metz and Alexander, 1967; Siconolfi et al., 1982). The characteristics
of a good V0 2 Max test are that the exercise effort be performed to maximal volitional or
physiological fatigue. The test requires that certain criteria be met including
demonstration of a leveling off or peaking over in oxygen consumption with increasing
exercise intensity, attaining a respiratory exchange ratio above 1.15, and achieving a
heart rate at or above the age predicted maximal heart rate (Katcb, Weltman, Martin and
Gray, 1977). Maximal aerobic testing is sometimes contraindicated when exercise is
restricted due to pain or premature fatigue rather than maximal physical exertion, and in
cases where maximal exercise is limited due to cardio-respiratory, metabolic, or
orthopedic problems (Noonan and Dean, 2000).
Direct measurement of VOiMax requires motivation and the ability of the subject
to exert maximal effort. Therefore, it is important that the subject be capable of
physically exerting maximal effort. If the target population used in testing does not
consist of highly motivated people who can exercise at moderate to high intensities, then
attaining a true V02Max could be difficult. Due to this, there is a need for estimating
V0 2 Max from submaximal testing to minimize physical discomfort when there is lack of
motivation by the subject in performing a maximal effort, or in the presence of health
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contraindications associated with the subject performing the V02Max test (Washburn and
Montoye, 1984).
In wellness and fitness center laboratories, VOaMax is often estimated using
submaximal aerobic fitness testing such as the Astrand-Ryhming and YMCA bicycle
ergometer tests (Astrand and Rybming, 1954; Coleman, 1976; Legge and Banister, 1986;
Macsween, 2001; Metz and Alexander, 1967; Siconolfi et al., 1982). The V02Max
estimated from submaximal tests is based on a linear relationship between heart rate and
exercise workload with extrapolation to an assumed maximum heart rate (Hartung et al.,
1995; Washburn and Montoye, 1984). Estimating V02Max from a submaximal exercise
test is dependent on several assumptions. The first involves the linear relationship
between heart rate and oxygen uptake, up to and including maximum values. This
assumption is generally met during various intensities of light to moderate exercise
testing. The second assumption is that maximum heart rate among individuals within an
age group is similar. The heart rate standard deviation is approximately 10 beats min'*
about the average maximal heart rate for individuals of the same age. This could mean
that a subject with an actual heart rate of 185 beats min'^ would have their V02Max
overestimated if the heart rate-oxygen uptake line is extrapolated to 195 beats min'^ It is
also important to remember that heart rate decreases with age. If an age correction factor
is not taken into consideration then older individuals will consistently have their VOaMax
overestimated. A third assumption is that oxygen uptake at a given workload is similar
when an individual is tested several times. If oxygen uptake is estimated from different
exercise workloads on different occasions, then the predicted V0 2 Max may be in error due
to the differences in effort. The variation among subjects in exercise economy during
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activities such as walking or cycling is thought to be no greater than 6 %. For bench
stepping the variation can equal about 10%. Any change in the testing protocol or
procedure could produce noticeable differences in the metabolic cost between tests. A
fourth assumption that is thought to be a significant factor in obtaining reliable test results
is the day-to-day variation found in heart rate for an individual. It is understood that even
imder the strictest and most standardized conditions, variations in submaximal heart rate
for any individual is approximately 5 beatsmin'^ with day-to-day testing at the same
workload. Within the limitations of these assumptions, V02Max predicted from a
submaximal heart rate is reported to be within 10 to 20% of the persons actual V0 2 Max
value (McArdle et al., 2001).
The Astrand-Rvhming Submaximal Test
In 1954, P.O. Astrand and Irma Ryhming reported the use of submaximal bicycle
exercise in estimating maximal aerobic capacity from heart rates and workload. They
established that when testing cardiorespiratory fitness, bicycle exercise could be used to
engage large groups of muscles at moderate to high workloads. They reported that the
exercise duration should be at least six minutes in duration to permit the distribution of
blood flow and oxygen uptake by the muscle to the level of exercise being performed
(Astrand and Ryhming, 1954). The nomogram reported by Astrand and Rhyming for
estimating V0 2 Max from submaximal exercise heart rate is probably the most commonly
used method to predict aerobic capacity (Jessup et al., 1977; Legge and Banister, 1986;
Macsween, 2001; Terry et al., 1977; Washburn and Montoye, 1984; Williams, 1975).
The basis behind a predictive test such as Astrand-Ryhming nomogram is the
10
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relatively linear relationship that exists between heart rate and exercise workload
(Coleman, 1976; Golding et al., 1989; Legge and Bannister, 1986; Macsween, 2001).
This requires extrapolation of the heart rate and workload regression line to the age-
predicted maximal heart rate. This maximal heart rate is used to establish a maximal
work rate that can then be used to predict V02Max (Storer et al., 1990). The Astrand-
Ryhming nomogram specifically predicts V02Max based upon workload and exercise
heart rate, along with the persons age and weight (Astrand and Ryhming, 1954;
Williams, 1975). Although these tests involve a submaximal exercise effort and are
supported by their ease of administration, they have resulted in variable standard errors of
estimate, which could affect their accuracy in predicting VOiMax. Coleman (1976)
reported the correlation coefficient (r = .68) and standard error of estimate (SEE = 7.32
mL-kg'^-min'^) for highly trained male subjects with the Astrand-Ryhming nomogram.
Jessup et al. (1977) reported a slightly smaller standard error of estimate of 5.1 mL kg
^min'^
Hartung et al. (1995) reported the Astrand-Ryhming test to overestimate V02Max
in women by approximately 18.5% (r = .72 and SEE = 5.69 mL-kg'^-min'^) using cycle
ergometry. The mean estimated V02max was 41 mL-kg'-min'^ and the actual V02max was
34 mL-kg'^-min'.
The use of the Astrand-Ryhming test has also been reported to under-predict
V02Max when compared with actual measures of V02Max in male subjects (Jessup et al.,
1977; Terry et al., 1977). Jessup et al. (1977) reported that the predicted versus actual
V02Max for male subjects were 41.2 mL-kg'^-min'^ and 45.3 mL-kg'^-min'^ respectively.
Terry et al. (1977) reported a predicted V02Max of 44.73 mL-kg'^-min'* and an actual
11
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mean VOiMax of 48.07 mL-kg'^-min'^ This underestimation of VOiMax may be accounted
for by deriving a V0 2 Max from submaximal exercise test data using the nomogram-based
algorithm and that the exercise performed was only up to 170 beats min'^ Furthermore,
xmderestimations may be associated with body weight and its relationship with VOaMax-
Coleman (1976) reported a discrepancy between VOiMax values using the Astrand-
Ryhming nomogram when oxygen uptake was expressed relative to body weight (mL-kg
^min'^) versus expressed as an absolute value (liters per minute). The correlation
coefficient reported using the nomogram method was .68, which was significant at the
.05 level of confidence. When this value was expressed relative to body weight the
correlation coefficient was reduced to .43, which was not significant at the .05 alpha
level. Wilmore (1967) reported a correlation coefficient of .84 and when expressed
relative to body weight the correlation was reduced to .37. These results led Wilmore to
assume that the reduction between VOaMax values expressed relative to body weight
versus those expressed in liters per minute were due to the positive correlation between
body weight and work output and its significant negative relationship with VOaMax-
Factors that may result in an elevated heart rate or that produce an abnormal
elevated exercise heart rate during testing include pre-exercise anxiety and the ingestion
of caffeine prior to testing. An abnormally elevated exercise heart rate could produce an
underestimation of VOiMax- Additionally, one cannot separate the effects of anxiety from
the effects of physical work on heart rate with a test that measures heart rate at a constant
workload (Lockwood, Yoder and Deuster, 1997). Heart rate is the one variable that can
be affected by uncontrolled conditions or external stimuli (Golding et al., 1989; Legge
and Banister, 1986; Metz and Alexander, 1967; Terry et al., 1977). Metz and Alexander
12
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(1967) reported conditions that tend to displace the pulse rate/work rate curves that
include ambient temperature, meals, time of day, fatigue, mechanical efficiency
associated with the work task, the test protocol, and problems with stress and emotions.
However, Golding et al. (1989) reported that at the lower exercise heart rates, the pulse
rate could also be affected by external stimuli such as talking, laughter and nervousness.
However, when the heart is required to pump harder in order to provide more blood to the
working muscles at moderate to high workloads, extemal stimuli no longer have as great
an effect on heart rate.
There exist reservations as to when the Astrand-Ryhming test should be used. For
the majority of people, the test is thought to be appropriate to establish general fitness in
screening situations, especially when more sophisticated techniques are unavailable
(Jessup et al., 1977). Macsween (2001) emphasized this by concluding that any derived
measures would always be, by definition, compromised measures. Yet with most of the
published data, extrapolation of submaximal data to age-predicted maximal heart rate
may provide an acceptable method for clinical monitoring. Interpretation of submaximal
data must be made with care because poor and incorrect predictions are possible. It is
always useful to know the actual maximal heart rate, as this helps to improve the
accuracy in predicting VOiMax (Golding et al., 1989). Lockwood et al. (1997) reported
that the use of an age-predicted maximal heart rate to estimate VOiMax contributes to the
estimation error of any submaximal, progressive ergometer test. Despite these conflicting
findings, many clinicians believe that the VO2 results are accurate enough for predicting
actual VOaMax (Astrand & Ryhming, 1954; Coleman, 1976; Siconolfi et al., 1982; Terry
et al., 1977).
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The YMCA Test
Another commonly used submaximal exercise protocol is the YMCA bicycle
ergometer test. Similar to the Astrand-Rhyming test, the YMCA test uses the linear
relationship between heart rate and workload. The YMCA test derives a VOiMax from
submaximal data by using linear extrapolation to 85% of the subjects age-predicted
maximal heart rate. Even though this protocol utilizes the linearity of heart rate and
workload, it establishes a certain criteria before linearity can be reached. That criterion
assumes linearity to begin at 110 beats per minute. To create a line, two points or heart
rates are needed, and therefore two workloads are used (American College of Sports
Medicine, 2000; Golding et al., 1989). The important element is that the workload used
cannot be too high or low in order to measure the appropriate exercise response. Most
heart rates at 150 beats min'^ will possess a linear relationship with workload. This means
that the protocol must be conducted to produce a heart rate response between 110 and at
least 150 beats min'^(Golding et al., 1989).
Once the two corresponding heart rate-workload points are established, a straight
line can be drawn and extrapolated to the estimated HRmax (Coleman, 1976). This
assumption of HRmax can lead to other sources of error with submaximal testing. If this
value of age-predicted HRmax is incorrect, the error could over- or under-predict VOaMax
(American College of Sports Medicine, 2000; Golding et al., 1989). Due to the lack of
published studies, additional research should examine the relationship between actual and
estimated VOaMax using the YMCA protocol. The relationship between the YMCA and
the Astrand-Ryhming test should also be examined.
14
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Alternate Testing Procedures
As the increased need for new information and new methods of testing evolve,
many researchers have attempted to establish whether other aspects of submaximal
testing have an adverse affect on how V02Max is reported. Several studies have examined
the effect of pedaling speed on the validity of the Astrand-Ryhming protocol (Jessup et
al., 1977; Swain and Wright, 1997). The Astrand-Ryhming test protocol requires
pedaling be performed at 50 revolutions-per-minute (RPM). Although this pedaling speed
is universally used when administering the Astrand-Ryhming test, it has been observed
that some subjects find 50 RPM to be uncomfortably slow, especially those with cycling
experience (Swain and Wright, 1997). Jessup et al. (1977) examined 50 RPM versus 80
RPM assuming that speed would not significantly affect V02Max- Their findings indicated
that increased pedaling speeds (80 RPM) might be acceptable as they yielded values that
were not significantly different from those at 50 RPM. The mean values ( SD) reported
for each of the tests were as follows: V02Max = 45.3 6.7 mL-kg^-min'\ predicted
V02Max at 50 RPM = 41.2 6.2 mL-kg'^-min'\ and predicted V02Max at 80 RPM = 42.6
7.4 mL-kg"^-min'*.
In another study, workload selection was examined for its effect on accurately
predicting V02Max using the Astrand-Ryhming nomogram. Several researchers evaluated
various workload levels and the selection process for them, specifically the nomogram
(Astrand and Ryhming 1954, Terry et al., 1977). Astrand and Ryhming (1954) reported a
validity coefficient of .71 for their original nomogram. In Terry et al. (1977) it reported a
validity coefficient of .65 (SEE = 4.07 mL-kg'^-min'*). Although the validity coefficient
reported by Terry et al. (1977) was slightly lower than that reported by Astrand and
15
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Ryhming (1954), it was concluded that the lower correlation coefficient was due to the
homogeneity of the group studied by Terry et al. (1977). Astrand and Ryhming (1954)
demonstrated that the most accurate estimate of VOaMax was obtained when the workload
was high and evoked a heart rate between 125 and 170 beats min^ They concluded that
within this heart rate range there is normally an almost linear increase between oxygen
consumption and heart rate.
Astrand and Ryhming (1954) also reported the effects of muscle mass and how it
might affect maximal oxygen uptake. They reported that knowing a subjects maximal
oxygen uptake per kilogram of body weight should provide a good indication of aerobic
fitness. This assumption was made because they assumed VOaMax to vary with muscle
mass. The ratio of muscle mass to body weight should, therefore, be considered an
important factor in determining an individuals aerobic capacity for work. Other studies
examined how body mass affected VOiMax- Wilmore (1967) investigated the relationship
between V0 2 Max and endurance capacity using cycle ergometry and reported a high
correlation {r - .84). This correlation coefficient was reduced when the results were
expressed relative to body weight (r = .37). When body weight was held as a statistical
constant, the correlation coefficient between VOaMax and endurance capacity increased to
.78.
Along with selecting the appropriate workload, the method of performing the
chosen workload is also important. Researchers have attempted to establish if there is a
significant difference between performing exercise tests using steady state or non-steady-
state methods. Steady-state protocols usually require at least 3-6 minutes of exercise at
each intensity level. Non-steady-state protocols are performed by incrementing the
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exercise intensity more rapidly, usually once per minute. One study compared 2 non
steady-state exercise protocols in normal individuals (15-second increments versus 1-
minute increments). The results showed the VOaMax values from the 15-second
incremental study (VOaMax = 46.7 9.8 mL-kg'^-min'^) were comparable in normal men
and women to data from the more commonly used 1-minute incremental protocol
(V02Max = 48.5 10.9 mL-kg'^-min'^) using the bicycle ergometer. These results were not
statistically significant {p > .05) (Fairshter, Walters, Salness, Fox, Minh and Wilson,
1983).
Summary
For over 50 years, submaximal bicycle testing has been used to predict VOaMax- hi
1954, Astrand and Ryhming initially reported that testing using submaximal workloads
provides good information about an individuals aerobic capacity. Since then,
discrepancies exist in the predictive accuracy between many of the studies that have
examined the Astrand-Ryhming test to predict VOiMax- This includes both a consistent
under- and over- prediction based on the Astrand-Ryhming nomogram (Jessup et al.,
1977; Terry et al., 1977).
The Astrand-Ryhming submaximal test is not the only submaximal test used in
predicting VOaMax- More recently, the YMCA bicycle ergometer test has become widely
used in submaximal fitness testing. A review of the literature shows a lack of published
research on the accuracy of this test in predicting V02Max in various populations. There is
a need to better understand the predictive accuracy of the YMCA Test in estimating
V 0 2 M ax -
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There appears to be no systematic studies that have compared the concurrent
validity of the Astrand-Ryhming and YMCA submaximal bicycle exercise tests in
predictingVOaMax in the same individual. Thus, it is timely that an investigation be made
to determine which of these two submaximal exercise tests provides the more accurate
estimate of V02Max- The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between
estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VOaiviax) measured from two standard
submaximal aerobic fitness tests and actual VOaMax measured during cycle ergometer
testing.
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CHAPTER III
PROCEDURE FOR COLLECTING DATA
Experimental Design
The research design for this study followed the correlation research method to
examine the relationship between estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VOiMax)
measured from two standard submaximal aerobic fitness tests and actual VOiMax
measured during cycle ergometer testing. A repeated measures design was used to
compare means among the three bicycle tests.
Subjects
The participants in this study were physically active volunteers from the
University of South Alabama Physical Education and Athletics programs. Twenty-three
subjects (11 men and 12 women) were recruited.
After approval by the Human Subjects Review Committee, all subjects were
given information pertaining to the nature, purpose, and possible risks involved in this
study. Each subject was required to sign a consent form prior to testing (Appendix A).
Inclusion Criteria
The requirements for inclusion into this study as a subject were as follows:
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1. Between 19 and 25 years of age and currently attending the University of
South Alabama;
2. Physically active as evidenced by cycling or running a minimum of 3-5
days per week for the previous 6 months or participation in competitive
running or cycling athletic events;
3. Not currently taking any medications that affect or change heart rate or the
subject's ability to perform aerobic exercise;
4. Have not been diagnosed with any cardiac conditions that may be
complicated by strenuous exercise.
Instrumentation
The Ergometer 800 Bicycle Ergometer (Sensor Medics Corporation, Yorba Linda,
CA) was used for all testing. Heart rate was measured during the submaximal tests using
Polar (Polar Electro Incorporated, Woodbury, NY) heart rate monitors. The Vmax 29
series metabolic cart (Sensor Medics Corporation, Yorba Linda, CA) with ECG interface
was used to measure oxygen consumption and heart rate during the VOaMax test.
Procedures
The experimental procedure for this study required each participant to perform
two standard submaximal bicycle ergometer tests (Astrand-Ryhming and the YMCA) and
one maximal oxygen consumption (VOiMax) bicycle ergometer test. Each subject was
required to report on three different days, separated by at least 72 hours, and commit to
approximately 15 to 30 minutes of research time for each visit. On the first testing day,
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demographic information was obtained, along with age, body weight, resting blood
pressure, and height. The physical activity inclusion criteria for participation were
determined and the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) obtained
(Appendix B) (American College of Sports Medicine, 2000; Cardinal, Esters and
Cardinal, 1996).
The VOiMax test was performed on the first testing day. The order of testing for
the Astrand-Ryhming and YMCA tests was randomized. Prior to each bicycle exercise
test, a 5-minute warm-up on the cycle ergometer was performed, along with lower body
stretching. Blood pressure was measured before and immediately after each exercise test.
Each subject was positioned properly on the bicycle, keeping an upright posture. The seat
height was adjusted to allow 5 degrees of flexion in the knee when the pedal was in the
down position (American College of Sports Medicine, 2000).
Submaximal Testing
To perform the Astrand-Ryhming protocol, each subject was seated on the bicycle
and instructed to pedal at a speed of 50 RPMs. Submaximal workloads intended to
produce a heart rate between 120 and 170 BPM were incrementally produced, with heart
rate being recorded at the end of each minute. The initial workload for both men and
women was 50 watts for the first minute of the test. Any subsequent increases in
resistance for the men and women were administered in 50-watt and 25-watt increments,
respectively. If after the first minute the subjects heart rate was below 120 beatsmin\
the resistance was increased accordingly to the next stage, and was increased every
minute thereafter until a heart rate above 120 beatsmin'^ was attained. If however, the
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subjects heart rate was above 120 beats min'^ after the first minute, then the resistance
remained the same throughout the test (Astrand and Ryhming, 1954; Scaffidi, Paris,
Gurchiek and Erdmann, 2003).
The YMCA protocol requires the subject perform two to four, 3-minute stages of
exercise, pedaling at a speed of 50 RPMs. This test was intended to raise the heart rate
between 110 beats'min"' and 85% of the age-predicted maximal heart rate. Heart rates
were recorded during the final 15 to 30 seconds of each stage. The initial workload for
both men and women was 25 watts. If the heart rate in the third minute of the stage was
less than 80 beats min' \ the second stage was set at 125 watts. If the heart rate in the third
minute of the stage was between 80-90 beatsmin'^ the second stage was set at 100 watts.
If the heart rate in the third minute of the stage was between 90-100 beats min'*, the
second stage was set at 75 watts. If the heart rate in the third minute of the stage was
greater than 100 beats min'^ the second stage was set at 50 watts. The third and fourth
stages (if required) were adjusted according to the workloads and corresponding heart
rates from the second stage (Appendix C) (American College of Sports Medicine, 2000;
Golding et al., 1989).
Maximal Oxygen Consumption Test
The maximal oxygen consumption (VOaMax) test was performed using a series of
3-minute stages, which were designed to elicit maximal effort within 12 to 15 minutes
(McArdle et al., 2001). During this test, expired respiratory gases were collected and
analyzed for oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations. Each subject wore a mouthpiece
connected to tubing that directed a portion of the expired air into the Vmax 29 series
metabolic cart for ventilation volume and gas analysis. Prior to each exercise test, the
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flow meter and the oxygen and carbon dioxide analyzers were calibrated according to
standard calibration procedures (Sensor Medics Corporation, Yorba Linda, CA).
For women participants, the initial work stage required pedaling at 50 watts and
increased by 25-watt increments every three minutes imtil VOiMax was achieved. For men
and those women participants who were more physically fit, the initial work stage
required pedaling at 50 watts and increased by 50-watt increments every three minutes
until the VOaMax was achieved. All tests were performed at a pedal rate of 50 RPMs. An
appropriate cool down/recovery period was performed after the conclusion of each test,
consisting of continued pedaling at a work rate below or equivalent to the first stage
workload of the exercise protocol.
The VOaMax test was terminated when the subject reached volitional fatigue
(exhaustion), requested to stop or failed to conform to the exercise test protocol,
experienced light-headedness, or any other adverse signs and symptoms related to cardio
respiratory distress (American College of Sports Medicine, 2000). The physiological
criteria for VOiMax required demonstration of a leveling off or peaking over in oxygen
consumption with increasing exercise intensity. Secondary criteria included attainment of
the age-predicted maximum heart rate or a respiratory exchange ratio above 1.15.
Statistical Analvsis
The Pearson Product-Moment Correlation was used to determine the relationship
between the Astrand-Ryhming and YMCA tests and the VO?mav test. A one-way repeated
measures analysis of variance was used to test whether there were any significant
differences among the three means for oxygen consumption. An independent t-test was
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used to determine if there was a significant difference between the correlation
coefficients between each individual submaximal test and VOimax- All statistical tests
were performed at the .05 alpha level. SPSS 11.5 for Windows (SPSS Inc, Chicago, XL)
was used for all data analysis.
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CHAPTER IV
RESULTS
Anthropometric Characteristics
Twenty-three physically active subjects were included in the data analysis. There
were eleven men, and thirteen women, ranging in age from 19 to 25 years of age.
Anthropometric data for age, height, weight, and body mass index of the subjects are
listed in Table 1.
Table 1.
Subject Anthropometric Characteristics
Anthropometric Measures Mean Standard Deviation
Age (yrs) 21.7 2.18
Height (in) 6 8 .2 4.03
Weight (Kg) 71.3 11.90
Body Mass Index (kg m'^) 23.5 2.41
Phvsiological Data
Each subject performed two standard submaximal bicycle ergometer tests
(Astrand-Ryhming and the YMCA) and a maximal oxygen consumption (VOamax)
bicycle ergometer test. The one-way repeated measures analysis of variance showed no
significant main effect for oxygen consumption (F 2,44 = 2.251, p = .12) among the three
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bicycle ergometer tests (Table 2). The mean ( SD) maximal oxygen consumption for all
subjects was 42.87 9.90 mL-kg'^-min'\ The mean ( SD) estimated maximal oxygen
consumption for the YMCA test was 46.09 13.18 mL-kg'^-min'*. The mean ( SD)
estimated maximal oxygen consumption for the Astrand-Ryhming test was 46.18 8.84
mL-kg'^-min'. A mean maximal heart rate of 186 ( 7.64) beats min^ and the mean
respiratory exchange ratio (R) of 1.15 ( .08) were also observed from the V02max test.
Table 2.
Oxygen Consumption Values (mL-kg'^-min'^) for the Maximal Oxygen Consumption
(VOaMax) and predicted (YMCA and Astrand-Ryhming) Bicycle Ergometer Tests
Test Mean Standard Deviation Number of Cases
V02Max
42.87 9.90 23
Astrand-Rhyming 46.18 8.84 23
YMCA 46.09 13.18 23
Correlational Findings
The Pearson Product-Moment Correlation coefficients between the YMCA and
Astrand-Rhyming submaximal tests and the maximal oxygen consumption test (VOaMax)
are presented in Table 3. A significant correlation was observed between the V02Max and
the Astrand-Rhyming tests (r = .56, p = .006) and between the VOaMax and the YMCA
tests (r = .83,/? < .001). A significant correlation coefficient (r = . l o , p < .001) was also
observed between the Astrand-Rhyming and the YMCA tests. The coefficients of
determination (r^) were .31 for the Astrand-Rhyming test and .68 for the YMCA test.
Approximately 31% of the variance of the estimated V02max for the Astrand-Rhyming
test was accounted for by its linear relationship with V02max- Whereas, approximately
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68% of the variance of the estimated V02max for the YMCA test was accounted for by its
linear relationship with V0 2 max- hi addition, a t-test comparison of the correlation
coefficients derived between the YMCA and V02max tests and between the Astrand-
Rhyming and V02max tests was significantly different {t (22) = 2.87, ju < .05). This
finding demonstrates that the estimation of V02max from the YMCA test is a more valid
measure of V02max than the estimated V02max obtained from the Astrand-Rhyming test.
Table 3.
Correlation Coefficients and Standard Error of Estimates (SEE) among the Maximal
Oxygen Consumption (V02Max)5 Astrand-Rhyming, and YMCA Bicycle Tests.
Variable
V02Max
Astrand-
Rhyming
YMCA SEE
V02Max
Pearson Correlation
Significance
1 .555*
.006
.825*
.000
Astrand-Rhyming Pearson Correlation
Significance
.555*
.006
1 .725*
.000
8.434
YMCA Pearson Correlation
Significance
.825*
.000
.725*
.000
1 5.721
'Significant Correlation Coefficient at the p < 0.01 level (2-tailed).
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CHAPTER V
DISCUSSION
Measuring VOaMax and predicting maximal oxygen consumption from
submaximal testing involve several important factors that must be considered in order to
meet the protocol and physiological requirements of testing. Physically active subjects
were studied because they could perform and complete the vigorous exercise testing
necessary to produce a valid V02max test. These factors included age, fitness level, and
the substantial motivation needed to perform and complete the submaximal and maximal
bicycle ergometer tests (Macsween, 2001).
Sampling the expired respiratory gases throughout the test allowed for the
continuous measurement of oxygen uptake. Demonstration of a leveling off or peaking
over in oxygen consumption with increasing exercise intensity was defined as the
primary criteria for determining VOiMax (McArdle et al., 2001). Nineteen of the 23
subjects showed a plateau or peaking-over (decline) in the oxygen uptake at or with
increasing workloads. This attainment of the plateau or peaking-over in maximal oxygen
consumption after the increase in workload indicates that these measurements were likely
the highest VO2 values obtainable for these subjects. The four subjects who were unable
to attain a plateau or peaking over had difficulty continuing the workload and in
achieving V02max as defined by the leveling off or peaking-over criteria. Local muscle
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factors such as fatigue likely contributed to the failure to achieve VOamax.
Secondary criteria that objectify VOiMax include attainment of the age-predicted
maximum heart rate or a respiratory exchange ratio (R) above 1.15 (McArdle et al.,
2001). The mean ( SD) maximum heart rate measured for the subjects was 186
beats min'^ This value was 94% of their age-predicted maximum heart rate (198
beatsmin"^). Analysis of the respiratory gases revealed a mean R value of 1.15, which
met this criterion for attainment of VOamax-
In the present study, both the YMCA and the Astrand-Rhyming tests were found
to overestimate V02max. Specifically, the Astrand-Rhyming test showed a mean
difference of 7.7% and the YMCA a mean difference of 7.5% above the VOamax- The
standard error of estimates (SEE) were also calculated, with the YMCA yielding an SEE
value of 5.721 mL-kg''-min'' and the Astrand-Rhyming yielding an SEE value of
8.434 mL-kg'^-min'\ If these values were used along with the estimates of V02max they
would fall within the 68% confidence level. This allows researchers to know, that if
repeated, the predicted V0 2 max values observed lie between the upper and lower limits of
the actual V0 2 max-
In a study using a testing protocol similar to the YMCA protocol, Swain and
Wright (1997) reported an SEE value of 8.2 mL-kg'^-min'^ for healthy subjects between
the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Terry et al. (1977) found an SEE of 4.07 mL-kg''-mm^
for the Astrand-Rhyming when compared to actual V02max- Siconolfi et al. (1982)
reported an SEE value of 6.01 mL-kg'^-min' for the Astrand-Rhyming test. The SEE
value ( 8.434 mL-kg'^-min'^) for the Astrand-Rhyming test reported in this study is
comparable with the others reported in the literature. However, no SEE comparisons for
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YMCA test can be made because no values are reported in the literature.
One of the principal findings from this study is that VOamax can be accurately
predicted from the Astrand-Rhyming and YMCA bicycle ergometer exercise tests. This
contention is supported by the observed significant correlation coefficients and by the
low standard error of estimates for the YMCA and Astrand-Rhyming tests. The
correlation coefficients observed for the Astrand-Rhyming and YMCA tests with VOamax
were .56 and .83, respectively. The correlation coefficient found between the Astrand-
Rhyming and YMCA tests for estimating VOamax was also high (r = .73). Terry et al.
(1977) reported a correlation coefficient of .65 between the Astrand-Rhyming test and
VOaraax, which was slightly greater than the .56 coefficient observed in this study.
Siconolfi et al. (1982) reported a high coefficient (r - .82) between the predicted VOimax
from the Astrand-Rhyming test and VOimax- The greater correlation coefficient observed
by Siconolfi et al. could be due in part to a greater variability in V02max values (31.3
ml.kg.min' 10.2) obtained from the subjects reported in his study as compared to the
variability inVOimax values used in the analysis of this study (46.2 ml.kg.min'^ 8.8).
This study supports the hypothesis that there is a greater relationship between the
YMCA and VOimax tests than between the Astrand-Rhyming and V02max tests. The
significant difference observed from the t-test analysis of the correlation coefficients
demonstrates that the estimation of V02max from the YMCA test is a more valid measure
of V02max than the estimated V02max obtained from the Astrand-Rhyming test. The
results also support the hypothesis that there would be a significant difference between
the correlations of the YMCA and Astrand-Rhyming tests in predicting V02max- The
correlation coefficient (.83) found between the YMCA and V02max was higher than the
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value observed between the Astrand-Rhyming and V02max (-55). This, in addition to the
lower SEE value of oxygen consumption, leads to the conclusion that in 19 to 25 year old
physically active individuals, the YMCA test yields a more accurate estimation of
V02max- This asscition may be explained by the YMCA test protocol design, which uses
three-minute stages, instead of one-minute stages that are used in the Astrand-Rhyming
test protocol. The YMCA test is also administered to elicit a heart rate between 110
beats min"' and 85% of the subjects age-predicted heart rate maximum. This criterion for
heart rate may allow for linear extrapolation to a higher percentage of maximum heart
rate as compared to the Astrand-Rhyming protocol for determining V02max-
An exercise test protocol similar to that of the YMCA test protocol can be found
in the American College of Sports Medicines (ACSM) Guidelines for Exercise Testing
and Prescription (2000). The ACSM protocol follows the same guidelines as the YMCA
test protocol by using 3-minute work stages and terminating the test at 85% of the age-
predicted heart rate maximum. The one difference between the ACSM test protocol and
the YMCA test protocol, however, is that the ACSM test doesnt require a beginning
heart rate of 110 beats min*to use in the extrapolation of the estimated V02max, Studies
using the ACSM exercise test protocol have been conducted (Greiwe, J., Kaminsky, L.,
Whaley, M., and Dwyer, G., 1995; Swain and Wright, 1997). Swain and Wright (1997)
reported that this method of testing significantly overestimated V0 2 max by approximately
28%, which was similar to the 26% reported earlier by Greiwe et al. (1995). It may be
that this overestimation of V02max is explained by the use of the ACSM methodology of
extrapolating submaximal heart rates to a predicted maximal aerobic power that is then
used to calculate V0 2 max.
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Due to the absence of published data on the YMCA test in estimating V02max, it is
not possible to make comparisons to other studies. This circumstance makes this study
unique in both design and in its findings. This study appears to be the first to compare
estimated measures of VOamax using both the Astrand-Rhyming and YMCA tests with
VOimax in the same individual. This research demonstrates that the use of submaximal
bicycle testing can be used to accurately estimate V0 2 max in physically active individuals.
The findings suggest that V02max estimated from the YMCA bicycle test provides a more
accurate estimate of V02max as compared to the Astrand-Rhyming test.
Several recommendations can be made for further experimental and applied study
using comparisons of the Astrand-Rhyming and YMCA bicycle ergometer tests with
V0 2 max testing:
1. Future studies should include a greater number of subjects to ensure adequate
statistical power.
2. Future studies should replicate the protocols used in this study to other age groups
and individuals with differing levels of fitness.
3. Studies should examine the various methods of calculating V02max from sub
maximal testing by using the Astrand-Rhyming nomogram, different graphing
techniques, and the newer ACSM equations.
32
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REFERENCE LIST
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REFERENCE LIST
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Astrand, P. and Ryhming, I. (1954). A nomogram for calculation of aerobic capacity
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Katch, V., Weltman, A., Martin, R., and Gray, L. (1977). Optimal test characteristics for
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Washburn, R. and Montoye, H. (1984). The validity of predicting VOamax in males
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35
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APPENDICES
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Appendix A
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA
CONSENT TO BE A RESEARCH SUBJECT
Project title: Concurrent Validity of Two Submaximal Bicycle Exercise Tests in
Predicting Maximal Oxygen Consumption
Principle Investigator; Wendy E. Davis, Graduate Student
Department of Health, Physical Education, and Leisure
Studies
Purpose and Background
You are being asked to participate in a research study comparing submaximal
aerobic bicycle testing and maximal aerobic testing. Submaximal bicycle testing is
widely used in fitness settings to predict maximum oxygen consumption (V02 Max) or
aerobic fitness. Submaximal testing serves as an alternative to maximal testing in
situations where actual oxygen consumption cannot be measured. This study will
compare two different bicycle exercise tests in their validity in measuring oxygen
consumption (V02 max).
If you agree to participate in this study, you will be required to perform two
submaximal tests (Astrand and YMCA) and a maximal aerobic fitness test while riding a
stationary bicycle ergometer. You are being asked to participate because you meet age
and fitness requirements.
After you read this informed consent either the principle investigator or a research
assistant will also read it to you. Questions concerning the research should be directed to
Wendy E. Davis, at (office) 251-460-7131. This project and this consent form have been
reviewed by the Human Subjects Protection Review Committee, which ensures that
research projects involving human subjects follow federal regulations. You may also
contact the Institutional Review Board with questions at 460-6308.
Approximately 20 subjects are being recruited for participation in this study and
representation from all racial and/or ethnic groups, of both genders are encouraged to
participate.
Inclusion criteria
The requirements for inclusion into the study as a subject are as follows:
1. Between 19 and 25 years of age;
2. Highly trained as evidenced by cycling or running at least 45-minutes per day
3 to 5-days per week for the previous 6 months or participation in competitive
running or cycling athletic events;
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3. Not currently taking any medications that affect or change your heart rate or
your ability to perform aerobic exercise.
4. Have not been diagnosed with any cardiac conditions, which may be
complicated by strenuous exercise.
Procedures
Upon agreeing to participate in this study, you will be required to report to the
Human Performance Laboratory (Room # 1080) in the Physical Education Building on
three different days and commit to approximately 15 to 30 minutes of research time for
each visit. You will be required to complete 3 days of exercise testing, one day per week.
Each day you will be subjected to a different bicycle exercise regimen until you complete
the exercise test consisting of the Astrand, YMCA, or maximal oxygen consumption test.
On the first testing day, your age, body weight, resting blood pressure, and height will be
measured.
The testing procedures involve performing three bicycle exercise tests, each
performed on a bicycle ergometer. Prior to each bicycle exercise test, a 5-minute warm
up will be performed, consisting of light resistance bicycling. Blood pressure will be
measured before and immediately after each exercise test. The two submaximal tests
include the Astrand 6-minute bicycle test and the YMCA bicycle test. To perform the
Astrand protocol, you will be seated on the bicycle and instructed to pedal at a speed of
50 RPMs. Submaximal workloads that are intended to produce a heart rate between 120
and 170 BPM will be incrementally produced, with your heart rate recorded each minute.
The YMCA protocol uses two to four, 3-minute stages of exercise. This test is intended
to raise your heart rate to between 110 BPM and 85% of your age-predicted maximal
heart rate. Heart rates will be recorded during the final 15 to 30 seconds of each stage.
The maximal oxygen consumption (V02 Max) test will be performed using a
series of 3-minute stages, which are designed to elicit maximal effort within 12 to 15
minutes. The purpose of this test is to elicit maximal heart rate and oxygen uptake.
During this test, expired respiratory gases will be collected and analyzed for oxygen and
carbon dioxide concentration. This requires you to wear a mouthpiece connected to
tubing that directs a portion of your expired air into a chamber for analysis. This
information will be used in the determination of maximal oxygen consumption.
For women participants, the initial work stage will require pedaling at 50 watts
and increasing by 25-watt increments every three minutes until the V02 Max is achieved.
For men and those women participants who may be more physically fit, the initial work
stage will require pedaling at 50 watts and increasing by 50-watt increments every three
minutes until the V02 Max is achieved. The V02 Max test will be terminated when you
reach exhaustion, if you request to stop or fail to conform to the exercise test protocol,
experience light-headedness, or any other adverse signs or symptoms related to cardio
respiratory distress. An appropriate cool down/recovery period will be initiated after the
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conclusion of each test, consisting of continued pedaling at a work rate equivalent to that
of the first stage of the exercise protocol or lower.
Risks and/or Discomforts
With any exercise there are potential health risks. As an additional safety
measure, it is also recommended that before this or any exercise or fitness test, you
should consult a physician. There exists the possibility of certain changes occurring
during testing. Some of the possible risks from participation in this study include:
dizziness, fainting, muscle fatigue, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, heart attack, stroke, or
death. All researchers and assistants are trained in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation)
and an automatic defibrillator will be available in the room i f needed.
Every effort will be made to minimize these risks by evaluation of preliminary
information relating to your health and fitness and by observation during testing. As a
participant you will be expected to fill out a PAR-Q questionnaire as part of your
preliminary evaluation. Information that you possess about your health status, exercise
history, or previous experiences of heart-related symptoms (such as shortness of breath,
pain, pressure, tightness, heaviness in the chest, neck, jaw, back and/or arms) with
physical effort might affect your safety and inclusion in this study. Your prompt reporting
of these and any other unusual feelings with effort during the test itself is of great
importance. You are responsible for fully disclosing your medical history, as well as
symptoms that may occur during the test. You are also expected to report all medications
taken recently and, in particular those taken on the day of each test.
Personal information is strictly confidential and your name will not be disclosed.
During the course of study, your information will be identified by a letter-number
combination. Any new information that might develop during the course of the project
will be provided to you if that information could affect your willingness to participate in
the project.
No funds have been set aside for payment i f you incur injury or illness as a result
of participation in this research project. In the event that it is determined that you need
the attention of a physician, you will be referred to either your personal physician, the
physicians at the U.S.A. Health Services or one of the local hospital emergency rooms.
Any of these physicians will be available to you but there will be a fee involved in use of
their services.
Information about the procedures described above and the possible risks of the
study have been explained. Whereas no assurance can be made concerning results that
may be obtained, the researcher will take every precaution consistent with the best
scientific practice.
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Benefits
No direct benefit is anticipated to the subject from participating in this study. You
will be provided information concerning your test results for maximal oxygen
consumption. These results may assist in estimating your level of aerobic fitness.
Reimbursement
There is no payment or reimbursement to the subject for study participation.
Questions
In case you have any questions about the study, please contact Wendy E. Davis at
(251)460-7131.
Consent
Participation in this project is completely voluntary and I understand that I have
the right to decline to participate and am free to withdraw at any time without penalty or
prejudice. Consent to participate in this project is hereby given by the undersigned. A
copy of this form has been given to me.
Date Signature of Subject
Date Signature of Researcher Obtaining Consent
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Name
Appendix B
Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q)
Subject # _________
Please read each question carefully and answer every question honestly: circle Yes or
No.
Yes No
1) Has a doctor ever said you have a heart condition and that you
should only do physical activity recommended by a doctor?
Yes No 2) Do you feel pain in your chest when you do physical activity?
Yes No
3) In the past month, have you had chest pain when you were not
doing physical activity?
Yes No
4) Do you lose your balance because of dizziness or do you ever
lose consciousness?
Yes No
5) Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse
by a change in your physical activity?
Yes No
6) Is your doctor currently prescribing drugs (for example, water
pills) for your blood pressure or heart condition?
Yes No 7) Do vou know of anv other reason vou should not do nhvsical
activity?
Regular physical activity is very safe for most people, however others need
medical clearance before they may start.
If you answered Yes to one or more questions you must see your doctor before
being allowed to participate.
Please note: If your health changes so that you can answer Yes to any of the
above questions, inform one of the investigators prior to your next scheduled test.
References:
1. American College of Sports Medicine (2000). Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription,
6* ed. Baltimore: Lippencott, Williams & Williams.
2. Cardinal BJ, Esters J, Cardinal MK. (1996). Evaluation of revised Physical Activity Readiness
Questionnaire in older adults. Medicine Science Sports and Exercise, 28, 468.
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Appendix C
L' Stage 25 Watts
HR <80 HR 80-90 HR 90-100 HR > 100
2"*Stage 125 Watts 100 Watts 75 Watts 50 Watts
3^*Stage 150 Watts 125 Watts 100 Watts 75 Watts
4^Stage 175 Watts 150 Watts 125 Watts 100 Watts
Directions:
1. Set the first work rate at 25 watts, pedaling at 50 RPM
2. If the heart rate in the third minute of the stage is:
Less than (<) 80 beats min'*, set the second stage at 125 watts (W)
80-90 beats min'^, set the second stage at 100 watts (W)
90-100 beats min', set the second stage at 75 watts (W)
Greater than (>) 100 beats min ^ set the second stage at 50 watts (W)
3. Set the third and fourth (if required) stages according to the work rates in the
columns below the second loads.
References:
1. American College of Sports Medicine (2000). Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription.
6* ed. Baltimore: Lippencott, Williams & Williams.
2. Golding et al. (1989). Ys way to physical fitness. 3'*Edition. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.
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Appendix D: Raw Demographic Information
Subject Age (yr) Gender Height (in) Weight (lbs) BMI (kg-m'^)
1 19 Female 63 127 22
2 20 Male 77 185 23
3 23 Male 70 140 20
4 25 Female 62 110 20
5 21 Male 71 155 22
6 19 Male 71 172 24
7 19 Male 71 161 23
8 20 Female 65 135 22
9 21 Female 66 145 23
10 20 Female 68 163 25
11 19 Female 66 163 26
12 22 Male 75 217 27
13 19 Female 64 132 23
14 22 Male 74 178 23
15 22 Male 68 140 21
16 25 Male 71 170 20
17 20 Female 68 161 25
18 24 Female 67 143 22
19 25 Male 69 160 24
20 23 Female 64 138 24
21 22 Female 64 145 25
22 23 Female 64 148 26
23 23 Male 71 220 30
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Appendix E: Raw Data for the Exercise Tests.
Subject
V02Max
Astrand-
Ryhming
YMCA Max HR
(beatsmin*)
R Value
1 44.1 46.8 41.6 186 1.03
2 48.5 45.2 49.9 186 1.22
3 48.6 44.0 50.3 202 1.31
4 40.5 44.2 42.0 185 1.18
5 55.9 38.3 53.9 198 1.30
6 59.9 48.5 48.5 178 1.09
7 48.6 46.4 62.8 181 1.07
8 42.7 47.2 45.6 194 1.08
9 40.1 47.0 53.1 182 1.16
10 38.8 44.5 37.8 187 1.10
11 3903 48.6 43.2 178 1.12
12 44.7 49.7 42.6 182 1.07
13 42.3 58.3 46.7 192 1.07
14 46.1 42.0 43.3 198 1.22
15 40.5 48.7 44.0 184 1.25
16 52.5 53.0 64.7 185 1.18
17 36.5 47.8 38.3 193 1.15
18 42.4 55.4 58.5 176 1.12
19 54.0 48.1 63.3 173 1.09
20 49.9 68.5 67.0 190 1.13
21 17.0 33.0 15.0 184 1.16
22 23.0 26.0 27.0 176 1.13
23 30.0 31.0 21.0 189 1.21
* V02Max, Astrand-Ryhming and YMCA values of maximal oxygen consumption
mL-kg'^-min'\
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Wendy E. Davis was bom in Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland, on November 7,
1979. After finishing her first year at the University of Ulster studying Sport, Exercise
and Leisure Studies, Wendy was awarded a full scholarship for Track and Field at the
University o f South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama. She graduated, magna cum laude with a
B.S. in Exercise Science in 2002. During her final year as an undergraduate student, she
received the Outstanding Undergraduate Student in Physical Education/Exercise Science
and the Jimmy Taylor Scholarship award for her contribution to sport and academics. A
graduate assistantship was awarded to Wendy during her second semester of Graduate
School at the University of South Alabama, and she was selected as the Outstanding
Physical Education/Exercise Science Graduate Student of the 2004 class.
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