DEVELOPMENT OF A SUBMAXIMAL INCREMENTAL STEP PROTOCOL TO DETERMINE VO2 MAX

N. Stehly, K. Hohman, & S. Tweeten University of Mary, Bismarck, ND Purpose: To develop a submaximal incremental step test (SIST) that is easier and more portable than current incremental VO2 tests without compromising the accuracy of current submaximal tests. Methods: The subject population consisted of 18 – 29 year old students currently enrolled at the University of Mary/ faculty currently employed at the University of Mary. Subjects performed the following two tests: a SIST and a maximal Bruce Protocol (MBP) treadmill test. The tests were performed on separate days with a minimum of 2 days rest between tests. The SIST was developed utilizing a combination of the submaximal Bruce Protocol estimation criteria and the American College of Sports Medicine stepping equation. Statistics: The relationship between MBP and SIST was investigated using a Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. Results: There was a strong, between MBP and HST was investigated using a Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. There was a strong, positive correlation between the two variables (r=.684, n=16, p=.003). Conclusion: The SIST had a strong correlation with measured VO2 max. The SIST can be used as a means to assess VO2 max with a similar degree of accuracy that other submaximal VO2 assessment protocols possess. NACSM Professional Sponsor: Jason Kobe