Estimating VO₂max Using a Personalized Step Test

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a step test with a personalized step rate and step height to predict cardiorespiratory fitness in 80 college-aged males and females using the self-reported perceived functional ability scale and data collected during the step test. Multiple linear regression analysis yielded a model (R = 0.90, SEE = 3.43 mL·kg−1·min−1) that included gender, body mass, perceived functional ability, step rate, and recovery heart rate. Based on the standardized β-weights, gender explained the largest proportion of variance in VO2max values followed by perceived functional ability. The cross validation predicted residual sum of squares statistics show minimal shrinkage (RPRESS = 0.88, SEEPRESS = 3.57 mL·kg−1·min−1) in the accuracy of the regression model. This study provides a model to predict VO2max from non-exercise data and data collected during an individualized multistage step test that is accurate, time-efficient, and easy to administer.