VO2 Max Exam Flashcards
What is VO2 max?
The maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) can be defined as the maximum integrated capacity of the pulmonary, cardiovascular and muscular systems to uptake, transport and utilize O2, respectively.
VO2max = oxygen consumption until failure - also looking at CO2
What is the equipment needed?
\+ Cortex Metabolic Cart / gas analysis machine \+ S, M and L Hans Rudolph facemask's \+ Stop watch (multiple) \+ Heart rate monitor \+ RPE form - RPE scale - (Rating of perceived exertion) - Borg scale - 6-20 \+ Trolly \+ Towels \+ Fan
Pre- testing prep:
\+ Client information \+ VO2max Data Recording Form \+ Health Screening Form \+ Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire \+ Valid Consent Form
What are the pre testing safety measures you need to inform the client before you start?
Safety - Tell them the testing protocol involves exercise to exhaustion, therefore the inherent
side effects of exhaustive exercise may be present including but not limited to: fainting, chest pains, weakness, vomiting, muscle soreness, and headaches.
What are the measurements you need to take before the test?
Body composition - height, weight
From the room - temperature, humidity, pressure - this could affect performance and need this for repeatability
How do you know where the test should start?
+ Ask them questions - protocol should be adjusted based on testing modality, health status, age, gender, etc.
Warm up:
+ 5 to 10 mins. Record the power output, HR and RPE.
+ Running: The participant will step on the treadmill and commence a warm-up at 3-5 mph at a fixed gradient of 1% for 5 minutes. (this gradient is the most similar to running outside)
+ Cycling: The participant will climb onto an appropriate cycle ergometer and commence cycling at 30 to 100W for 5 minutes. (Make sure seat is at hip height)
Test:
+ Running: Each stage of exercise will last 1 minute (2-3mins before the treadmill speed is increased by between 1 and 2 kph depending on the participant- fitter individuals will need to run for longer at a higher speed to tire). Each minute the running speed will increase until a point of volitional exhaustion is achieved.
+ Cycling: Each stage of exercise will last 1 minute before the required power output is increased by 15-30W (depending on the participant).
Verbal encouragement can be provided during the test; however, participants should be reminded that they are in complete control of the test and that they can stop at any time.
Cool Down:
Once the participant has elected to stop the test (grabbed the handrails on the treadmill or stopped pedaling) the operator will first stop or slow the treadmill belt or reduce the required power output on the cycle ergometer, they will then remove the participant’s mask, and ensure that the participant is feeling well (i.e., is not at risk of fainting or vomiting). The participant should then remain on the treadmill or bike to cool down at a self- selected pace for as long as desired.
The participant should be monitored for signs of nausea or fainting (e.g., ashen
face) for approximately 5-10 minutes during cool down.
Whats the criteria for reaching VO2 max?
+ An oxygen plateau
+ Blood lactate 8 – 10 mmol/L
+ HR max within 10 bpm of age-predicted HR max
+ RER > 1.1
How do mitochondria and muscle fibres play a part in training adaptations and VO2 max?
Better trained individuals have more mitochondria - more mitochondrial = more oxygen.
Those with more type 1/slow twitch fibre have better utilisation of oxygen - type 2 is more glycolytic.
How is VO2 measured in units?
It is measured in litres/minute (L/min - absolute) or millilitres/minute per kilogram (mL/min/kg - relative) of body weight.
This can be calculated by:
(L/min divided by body mass) x1000
= mL/min/kg
What are normative VO2 max values?
Average male: 40-45 mL/min/kg
Average female: 30-35 mL/min/kg
Elite athlete could reach approximately 75 mL/min/kg.
Paula Radcliffe, some male athletes have had 92 mL/min/kg,
How long should a Vo2 max test roughly last?
Roughly 12 minutes. If you have a fitter participant
Why would you want to do a VO2 max?
To determine an athletes cardiovascular fitness and performance capacity.
