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.

Objective

The objective of this test is to monitor the athlete's Vo2 max.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

  • Cycle ergometer
  • Heart rate monitor
  • Stop watch
  • An assistant

How to conduct the test

  • Set up the cycle ergometer with correct handlebar and seat adjustments
  • Select a load to begin the test - see the Astrand Test Loading Wattages table below. Whether you use the lower or upper wattages will depend upon your weight and fitness level. The selected load should raise your pulse rate to steady state between 130-160 bpm.
Astrand Test Loading Wattages
Age years
Males
Females
Under 35
100-150
100-125
35-55
100-125
75-100
Over 55
75-100
50-75
  • Pedal at 60 rpm for 6 minutes at your chosen loading, taking pulse every minute. Your pulse rate should be steady state between 130-160 bpm
  • If your pulse rate is not in the target range after 2 minutes then adjust your loading accordingly by 25 watts for the remainder of the test
  • At the end of minute 6 record your pulse rate and the loading wattage
  • Use the Astrand-Ryhming Nomogram to determine your Vo2
  • Multiply your Vo2 value by 1000 and divide by your weight (kg) to determine your Vo2 max
  • The calculator below will provide you with an estimate of your Vo2max L and Vo2 max kg/ml/min

Analysis

Analysis of the result is by comparing it with the results of previous tests. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement.

Astrand 6 minute Cycle Test Calculator

The following calculator utilises a series of polynomial equations based on the Astrand-Ryhming Nomogram (Reference: ACSM Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, Edition 5)

To obtain an estimate of your Vo2 max (L) and Vo2 max (ml/kg/min) please enter your, gender, weight, pulse rate and wattage (kg/min) and then select the 'Calculate' button.

Gender
Weight
Pulse Rate bpm (Range: 130-160)
Wattage kg/min (Range: Male 75-150 & Female 50-125)
 
Estimated Vo2 max - L
Estimated Vo2 max - ml/kg/min

If the estimated values are 0.00 then the values you entered are outside the specified ranges. For an analysis of your Vo2 max score see the Vo2 max page.

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.

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 Vo2 max tables and the correlation to actual Vo2 max is high. For an assessment of your Vo2 max see the VO2 max normative data tables.

101 Performance Evaluation Tests

101 Performance Evaluation Tests

Periodic testing and measuring is the only way to get the up-to-date, accurate and objective information you need to assess current performance, then make informed decisions about future training and competition goals.

This brand new workbook, 101 Performance Evaluation Tests, is the largest, most complete and authoritative collection of sports performance evaluation tests there is. And it is an essential tool for anyone wanting to predict athletic performance or evaluate an athlete`s current level of fitness.

Select this link for more information on "101 Performance Evaluation Tests".

Associated Pages

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

Associated Books

The following books provide more information related to this topic:

  • Advanced Studies in Physical Education and Sport, P Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 4482345
  • Physical Education and the Study of Sport, B. Davis et al., ISBN 0 7234 31752
  • Essentials of Exercise Physiology, W.D. McArdle et al., ISBN 0 683 30507 7
  • Physical Education and Sport Studies, D. Roscoe et al., ISBN 1 901424 20 0
  • The World of Sport Examined, P. Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 438719 9
  • Advanced PE for Edexcel, F. Galligan et al., ISBN 0 435 50643 9
  • Examining Physical Education, K. Bizley, ISBN 0 435 50660 9
  • Sport and PE, K Wesson et al., ISBN 0 340 683821
  • PE for you, J. Honeybourne, ISBN 0 7487 3277 2

Keywords: validity, reliability, test, astrand, cycle, performance, evaluation, sport, pulse, rate, wattage, analysis, endurance, loading, assess, physical, calculator, cycling, aerobic, weight, athlete, education, measure