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VO2 max Step Test

Testing and measurement are the means of collecting information upon which subsequent performance evaluations and decisions are made. In the analysis, we need to consider factors influencing the results.

Objective

This test aims to monitor the development of the athlete's cardiovascular system.

Required Resources

To conduct this test, you will require:

  • A 16¼-inch high bench or step.
  • Stopwatch.
  • Metronome or cadence tape.
  • Heart rate monitor (optional).
  • An assistant.

How to conduct the test

The 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 heartbeats 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.
 Step Ups Step Ups

Assessment

I am unable to locate any normative data for this test.

The following equations can be used to determine the athlete's VO2 max (McArdle 2000)[1].

  • Men = 111.33 - (0.42 x pulse rate beats/min)
  • Women = 65.81 - (0.1847 x pulse rate beats/min).

For evaluating 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

Analysis

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

Target Group

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

Reliability

Test reliability refers to how a test is consistent and stable in measuring its intended measure. Reliability will depend upon how strictly the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test. The following link provides various factors influencing the results and test reliability.

Validity

This test provides a means to monitor training on the athlete's physical development. Test validity refers to the degree to which the test measures what it claims to measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions based on test scores are appropriate and meaningful. Normative data tables for assessing your VO2 max.

Advantages

  • Minimal equipment is required.
  • Simple to set up and conduct.
  • It can be conducted almost anywhere.

Disadvantages

  • An assistant is required to administer the test.

References

  1. McARDLE, W.D. et al. (2000) Nutrition and Energy Transfer. In: McARDLE, W.D. et al., 2nd ed. Essentials of Exercise Physiology, USA: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, p. 199.

Page Reference

If you quote information from this page in your work, then the reference for this page is:

  • MACKENZIE, B. (2007) VO2 max Step Test [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/stepvo2max.htm [Accessed