Comparison of the BSU ramp protocol vs. an individualized protocol

Optimal test duration for a maximal graded exercise test has been determined to be 8-12 minutes. Various protocols are utilized for testing of this type, depending on the patient or subject being tested. The purpose of this study was to compare the maximal treadmill times achieved by subjects using the BSU ramp protocol and an individualized treadmill protocol, designed to produce a test time of 10 minutes for each person. Subjects were persons who were entering or who were already members of a university based exercise program, (N=15; 7 women; 8 men) having a mean age of 43 ± 11 years.Two treadmill tests were completed by each subject with the ramp rate of the individualized protocol determined by a predicted V02.No differences were found when comparing the maximal variables from both of the protocols. Three of the subjects exercised for 10 minutes on the individualized protocol with 8 exercising within a 8-12 minute time period. Three subjects exercised for over 12 minutes and 1 for less than 8 minutes on the individualized protocol. In conclusion, as no significant differences were found between the two protocols either may be used for testing with selection determined by the technician.School of Physical EducationThesis (M.A.