Date Presented

Spring 5-18-2024

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Dr. Jill Lucas

Second Advisor

Dr. DuAnn Kremer

Third Advisor

Dr. Price Blair

Abstract

The ACSM and YMCA cycle ergometer tests are two similar and common protocols for VO2max estimation that require submaximal effort. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in VO2max estimation between the ACSM and YMCA tests. Eleven healthy adults (63.6% female, 21.1 ± 1.3 years) volunteered to complete both submaximal tests. Both tests were performed in a randomized order three to ten days apart. During testing, heart rate and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed and VO2max was estimated. Between the ACSM and YMCA protocols, there were no significant differences in the highest heart rate achieved (138.4 ± 9.8 vs. 134.4 ± 8.3 bpm, p = 0.12) and highest RPE reported (12.5 ± 2.5 vs. 11.8 ± 1.9, p = 0.21). There were no significant ending relative VO2 differences (18.7 ± 3.5 vs. 17.0 ± 3.5 ml/kg/min, p = 0.19) or estimated VO2max differences (34.3 ± 8.0 vs. 32.9 ± 10.0 ml/kg/min, p = 0.72). A subset analysis (n=5) was performed using gas analysis. There were no significant differences in the ending relative VO2 (21.3 ± 4.1 vs. 20.3 ± 4.7 L/min, p = 0.48), ending minute ventilation (36.5 ± 13.9 vs. 31.1 ± 10.6 L/min, p = 0.19), ending respiratory exchange ratio (0.95 ± 0.1 vs. 0.93 ± 0.1, p = 0.75), and ending respiratory rate (23.4 ± 6.3 vs. 22.6 ± 5.2 breaths per minute, p = 0.37). Between the ACSM and YMCA protocols, there was a significant difference in ending tidal volume (1.9 ± 0.5 vs. 1.6 ± 0.3 L per breath, p = 0.046). The two submaximal tests yielded similar results within subjects suggesting that the protocols could be used interchangeably for assessment of aerobic fitness.

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