VO2 max Step 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 development of the athlete's cardiovascular system.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

  • A 16¼ inch high bench or step
  • A stop watch
  • Metronome or cadence tape
  • Heart rate monitor (optional)
  • An assistant

How to conduct the test

Step TestThe VO2 max Step Test is conducted as follows:

  • Step up and down, one foot at a time, onto the step or bench for 3 minutes
  • Maintain a steady four beat cycle
    • Women 22 steps/minute
    • Men 24 steps/minute
  • On finishing the test count the number of heart beats for 15 seconds
  • Multiply the number of beats in 15 seconds by 4 to give the "step test pulse rate"
  • Use this final value to assess the athlete's VO2 max using the calculator below

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.

Performance Assessment

For an evaluation of the athlete's VO2 max select the gender, enter the "step test pulse rate" and then select the 'Calculate' button.

Gender Step test pulse rate b.p.m.
 
VO2 max - mL.kg.min

Target Group

This test is suitable for active and sedentary athletes but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

101 Performance Evaluation Tests

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. For an assessment of your Vo2 max see the VO2 max normative data tables.

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