Cigarette smoking and maximal oxygen consumption rate in humans

Abstract

The relationship of maximal oxygen uptake with tobacco consumption was investigated in sixty-one young males. There was a significant negative correlation between daily consumption of tobacco and measured maximal oxygen uptake (Vo₂max) expressed relative to body weight (r = -0.368, P < 0.01) and to lean body mass (r = -0.497, P < 0.001), respectively. No correlation could be demonstrated with regard to predicted maximal oxygen uptake (Vo₂max_p). No difference was demonstrated between Vo₂max_p and Vo₂max in nonsmokers and heavy smokers, whereas Vo₂max_p was significantly higher (P < 0.01) in the group of moderate smokers than Vo₂max. It is concluded that tobacco smoking decreases Vo₂max even in young moderate smokers. Smoking habits should be considered among factors affecting Vo₂max_p from cardiac frequency at submaximal levels.

Key Words:

• body composition
• physical working capacity
• prediction of maximal oxygen uptake
• tobacco smoking