ESTABLISHING A PREDICTION MODEL OF MAXIMAL OXYGEN UPTAKE FOR YOUNG ADULTS IN TAIWAN

ABSTRACT

This study was aimed to establish a maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O_2max) prediction model using non-exercise variables for young adults in Taiwan. Thirty young individuals participated in this experiment. The accurate [Vdot]O_2max was measured using the K4 telemetry system during increment cycling test. A significant difference in ([Vdot]O_2max) between males (3.34 ± 0.69 liters · min⁻¹) and females (2.07 ± 0.38 liters · min⁻¹) was found. The results indicate that [Vdot]O_2max was significantly correlated with gender, age and body mass index (BMI). BMI (kg · m⁻²) was computed from body weight in kilograms and body height in meters. The multi-regression model (N=24) for predicting [Vdot]O_2max (liters · min⁻¹) was obtained as: [Vdot]O_2max = 3.127 + (0.980 × Gender)—(0.115 × Age) + (0.084 × BMI); R² =77.3%. The accuracy of the model was evaluated by conducting a cross-validation analysis (N=6). In conclusion, the established model is a valid and efficient tool that can be used to estimate the [Vdot]O_2max and to select workers for physical demanding jobs.

Keywords:

• maximal oxygen uptake
• prediction model
• non-exercise predictors