A short cycle ergometer test to predict maximal workload and maximal oxygen uptake.

In order to develop a short cycle ergometer test for the prediction of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and maximal work load (Wmax) oxygen uptake, workload and heart rate data were collected in 22 subjects. In the first test the subjects cycled at two submaximal stages of 3 min each whereafter the workload was quickly (within 4 min) increased to a supramaximal level to attain the maximal heart rate. A second graded cycle test was used to compare observed Wmax and VO2max with estimated Wmax and VO2max. The means of the estimated Wmax and observed Wmax were 364.9 (SD +/- 42.4) watts and 368.8 (SD +/- 40.2) watts, respectively and the mean estimation error was -1.0% (range -7.1% to 4.4%). For 82% of the subjects the estimation error was within +/- 5%. The means of the estimated VO2max and observed VO2max were 4.49 (SD +/- 0.45) l.min-1 and 4.59 (SD +/- 0.41) l.min-1, respectively. The mean estimation error was -2.1% (range -13.8% to 5.1%). For 68% of the subjects the estimation error was within +/- 5%. It is concluded that for trained athletes the short test (8-10 min) is accurate for the estimation of Wmax and VO2max by measuring two submaximal heart rates and maximal heart rate and making use of the linear relationship between heart rate, workload and oxygen uptake.