Vol 8, Issue 4

Prediction of Maximal Oxygen Consumption from Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) using a Modified Total-body Recumbent Stepper

December 1, 2015 - By 

Authors

John P. McCulloch, University of Louisville
Douglas J. Lorenz, University of Louisville
Michael A. Kloby, University of Louisville
Matthew D. Love, University of Louisville
Daniela G.L. Terson de Paleville PhD, University of Louisville
International Journal of Exercise Science 8(4): 414-424, 2015.
DOI: 10.70252/FZZN2389

Abstract

Exercise training is crucial to improve cardiovascular health and quality of life in people with spinal cord injuries (SCI). A key limitation is the lack of validated submaximal tests to evaluate and predict cardiovascular fitness in this population. The purpose of this study was to validate a submaximal test to predict maximal oxygen consumption for individuals with SCI. Ten able-bodied participants and two individuals with SCI completed a rating of perceived exertion (RPE)-based submaximal oxygen consumption test and a graded maximal oxygen consumption test on a NuStep T4 recumbent stepper. Prediction of VO2max from an RPE-based protocol is feasible and can produce reliable predicted VO2max values in the able bodied population. This study is a proof of concept to the implementation of a submaximal test protocol using a total body recumbent stepper to predict VO2max in able-bodied individuals. Additionally, this study shows evidence of feasibility of performing this test in SCI individuals.

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