Astrand 6 minute Cycle Test

Testing and measurement are the means of collecting information upon which subsequent performance evaluations and decisions are made but in the analysis we need to bear in mind the factors that may influence the results.

The Astrand 6 minute Cycle Test was devised by Astrand P.O. in 1956.

Objective

The objective of this test is to monitor the athlete's VO2max.

Required Resources To undertake this test you will require: Cycle ergometer Heart rate monitor Weighing Scales Stopwatch Assistant

How to conduct the test

• The assistant weighs and records the athlete's weight
• The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
• The assistant sets the initial cycle work rate kg-m/min (kilogram-force meter/minute)as follows:
• Male under 35 – 125
• Male 35-55 – 115
• Male over 55 – 85
• Female under 35 – 115
• Female 35-55 – 85
• Female over 55 – 60

1 watt is equal to 3600 J/hr, or 6.11829727787 kg-m/min

• This setting should raise the athlete’s heart rate to 130-160bpm after 2 minutes cycling at 60rpm
• The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
• The athlete pedals at 60rpm for 6 minutes whilst maintaining their heart rate between 130-160bpm
• The assistant records the athlete’s heart rate each minute
• After 2 minutes - if the athlete’s heart rate is not in the target range of 130-160bpm then the assistant adjusts the work rate wattage accordingly
• The assistant stops the test after 6 minutes and records the final work rate wattage

Assessment

If the estimated values are 0.00 then the values you entered are outside the specified ranges and you will need to use the Astrand-Ryhming Nomogram to obtain your estimates.

For an analysis of your VO2max score see the VO2max page.

Analysis

Analysis of the test result is by comparing it with the athlete's previous results for this test. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement in the athlete's VO2max.

Target Group

This test is suitable for endurance athletes and players of endurance sports (e.g. football, rugby) but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

Reliability

Test reliability refers to the degree to which a test is consistent and stable in measuring what it is intended to measure. Reliability will depend upon how strict the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test. The following link provides a variety of factors that may influence the results and therefore the test reliability.

Validity

Test validity refers to the degree to which the test actually measures what it claims to measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions made on the basis of test scores are appropriate and meaningful. This test provides a means to monitor the effect of training on the athlete's physical development. There are published VO2max tables and the correlation to actual VO2max is high. For an assessment of your VO2max see the VO2max normative data tables.

Advantages

• Minimal equipment required
• Simple to set up and conduct

Disadvantages

• Specialist equipment required
• Assistant required to administer the test

Referenced Material

1. ASTRAND, P.O. & RYHMING, I. (1954) A nomogram for calculation of aerobic capacity (physical fitness) from pulse rate during submaximal work. J Appl Physiol, 7, p. 218-221.

Page Reference

The reference for this page is:

• MACKENZIE, B. (2007) Astrand 6 minute Cycle Test [WWW] Available from: http://www.brianmac.co.uk/cycle6min.htm [Accessed

Associated Pages

The following Sports Coach pages should be read in conjunction with this page:

• Articles on Performance Evaluation
• Evaluation and Performance Tests