Effect of Cardiorespiratory Fitness on Verifying VO2max in Middle-aged and Older Adults

Abstract

We investigated the effect of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) on the probability of achieving the verification criterion to confirm that VO₂max was obtained in a sample of middle-aged to older adults. Data from twelve men and nine women (60.7±8.5 years, VO₂max: 34.8±9.4 mL/kg/min) were used for analysis. Participants had their VO₂max measured via a maximal graded exercise test and confirmed using a verification bout on a cycle ergometer. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the effect of CRF (VO₂max) on the probability a participant would successfully achieve the verification criterion. Odds ratios are reported to quantify the effect size. No statistically significant relationship was observed between CRF and achieving the verification criterion (β=.081, SE=.0619, Wald=1.420, p=.156). Estimated odds ratio for the effect of CRF on the verification criterion indicated an increase of 8% [Exp(β)=1.08, 95% CI (0.96, 1.22)] in the probability of achieving the verification criterion given a one unit increase in VO₂max. Each 1 mL/kg/min increase in VO₂max results in an 8% increase in the chance that an individual achieves the verification criterion confirming that VO₂max was obtained. Therefore, CRF is likely of practical significance and should be considered when deciding to use a verification trial.

Key words

maximal oxygen uptake - plateau - criteria - verification - logistic regression - cycle ergometer

Publication History

Received: 07 December 2021

Accepted: 22 December 2021

Article published online:
25 April 2022

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