Modality determines V O 2max achieved in self-paced exercise tests: validation with the Bruce protocol

Abstract

Purpose

The Bruce protocol is traditionally used to assess maximal cardiorespiratory fitness (VO_2max), but may have limitations, such as an unknown duration and large work rate increases. The use of self-paced VO_2max tests (SPVs) may be beneficial if they are able to elicit similar maximal values in a set period of time. In addition, differences in modality between SPVs have not been explored. The purpose of this study was to compare SPVs, utilizing two different modes, with the Bruce (treadmill) protocol.

Method

Thirteen healthy, recreationally active individuals (eight men, five women) volunteered and participated in three different laboratory visits with each utilizing a different VO_2max testing protocol. The first visit consisted of the Bruce protocol test, and the remaining visits entailed a maximal SPV on a treadmill (TM SPV) and a cycle ergometer (CE SPV).

Results

There were no differences in VO_2max values between the TM SPV and the Bruce protocol tests (55.6 ± 4.9 vs. 56.2 ± 6.8, respectively; p = .510). As expected, the CE SPV (48.3 ± 7.6) was significantly lower than the other two tests (p < .001).

Conclusion

The TM SPV was as effective in eliciting an accurate VO_2max as the Bruce protocol and did so with less incline and in less time suggesting that there are no changes in the limits of VO_2max even when the test is self-paced and perceptually regulated.

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