A new method for self-paced peak performance testing on a treadmill.
OBJECTIVE
Self-paced maximal testing methods may be able to exploit central mediation of function-limiting fatigue and therefore have potential to generate more valid estimates of peak oxygen uptake. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a new method for self-paced peak performance testing on treadmills and to compare peak and submaximal performance outcomes with those obtained using a non-self-paced ('computer-paced') method employing predetermined speed and slope profiles.


METHODS
The proposed self-paced method is based upon automatic subject positioning using feedback control together with an exercise intensity which is driven by a predetermined, individualized work-rate ramp.


RESULTS
Peak oxygen uptake was not significantly different for the computer-paced (CP) versus self-paced (SP) protocols: 4·38 ± 0·48 versus 4·34 ± 0·46 ml min-1, P = 0·42. Likewise, there were no significant differences in the other peak and submaximal cardiopulmonary parameters, viz. peak heart rate, peak respiratory exchange ratio and the first and second ventilatory thresholds. Ramp duration for CP was longer than for SP: 494·5 ± 71·1 versus 371·3 ± 86·0 s, P = 0·00072. Concomitantly, the peak rate of work done against gravity was higher for CP: 264·8 ± 40·8 versus 203·8 ± 53·4 W, P = 0·0021.


CONCLUSIONS
The self-paced approach was found to be feasible for estimation of the principal performance outcomes: the method was technically implementable, it was acceptable to the subjects and it showed good responsiveness. Further investigation of the self-paced method, with adjustment of the target ramp-phase duration or modification of the work-rate calculation equations, is warranted.
Division of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Engineering and Information Technology, Institute for Rehabilitation and Performance Technology, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Burgdorf, Switzerland.
Kenneth J
KJ
Hunt
Division of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Engineering and Information Technology, Institute for Rehabilitation and Performance Technology, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Burgdorf, Switzerland.
Prasanna
P
Anandakumaran
Division of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Engineering and Information Technology, Institute for Rehabilitation and Performance Technology, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Burgdorf, Switzerland.
Jonas A
JA
Loretz
Division of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Engineering and Information Technology, Institute for Rehabilitation and Performance Technology, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Burgdorf, Switzerland.|Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.
Jittima
J
Saengsuwan
D000328:Adult; D000072599:Cardiorespiratory Fitness; D004867:Equipment Design; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D005080:Exercise Test / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D030141:Feedback, Psychological; D006339:Heart Rate; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018763:Muscle Fatigue; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D010807:Physical Endurance; D011187:Posture; D012119:Respiration; D012649:Self Concept; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D013997:Time Factors; D055815:Young Adult
feedback control; heart rate; oxygen uptake; self-paced testing; treadmill; ventilatory threshold