Wheelchair VO2max 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

To monitor the athlete's level of aerobic fitness.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

• 400 metre track - marked every 100 metres
• Racing Wheelchair
• Stopwatch
• Assistant

How to conduct the test

The test, based on work by Franklin et al. (1990) [1], comprises of seeing how far an athlete can travel in twelve minutes. The assistant should record the total distance covered to the nearest 100 metres.

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.

Assessment

The following table provides an assessment of your test result:

Target Group

This test is suitable for wheelchair athletes 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. For an assessment of your Vo2 max see the VO2 max normative data tables.

Advantages

• Minimal equipment required
• Simple to set up and conduct
• The test can be administered by the athlete

Disadvantages

• Specialist equipment required
• Specific facilities required
• Assistant required to administer the test

Referenced Material

1. FRANKLIN, B.A. et al. (1990) Field test estimation of maximal oxygen consumption in wheelchair users. Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 71 (8), p. 574-578

Page Reference

The reference for this page is:

• MACKENZIE, B. (2007) Wheelchair VO2max Test [WWW] Available from: http://www.brianmac.co.uk/wheelchairtest.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