Maximum Velocity (Vmax)
The maximal velocity (Vmax) achieved at the end of a maximal exercise test has been shown to correlate well with changes in running performance (Noakes et al. 1990). This test is similar to the VO2max test, without requiring the expensive metabolic analysis equipment.
purpose: to estimate aerobic fitness
equipment required: a treadmill, stopwatch, heart rate monitor (optional).
pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender, test conditions. Perform an appropriate warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.
procedure: Exercise is performed on a treadmill. The exercise workloads are selected to gradually progress in increments (~1 km/hr or 1 mph) starting from moderate to intensity such as 8 km/hr (5 mph). The speed should be increased every few minutes (between 1-4 minutes) The speed is increased continuously until the athlete reaches exhaustion.
scoring: Vmax is taken as the final speed the athlete can maintain for at least one minute.
target population: Any sport in which aerobic endurance is a component, such as distance runners, cross-country skiers, rowers, triathlon, cycling.
advantages: This test does not require expensive VO2 analysis equipment, though can give similar results. You can also get a direct measurement of maximum heart rate by recording heart rate during the test, which can then be used for setting training target heart rate zones.
other comments: This test is best conducted with athletes who are familiar with exercising at high intensity.
caution: This test is a maximal test, which requires a reasonable level of fitness. It is not recommended for recreational athletes or people with health problems, injuries or poor fitness levels.
reference: Noakes, T. D., Myburgh, K. H., & Schall, R. (1990). Peak treadmill running velocity during the VO2max test predicts running performance. Journal of Sports Sciences, 8, 35-45.
Similar Tests
- Astrand Treadmill Test
- This test is a simplified version of the VO2max test
- See also the Bruce Test.
Related Pages
- There are also other tests of aerobic capacity.
- Measuring Basal Metabolic Rate — VO2 at rest.
- Other fitness tests conducted on treadmills
- See heart rate measurement methods if heart rate measurement is also required.
- Ratings of Perceived Exertion Scale if you want to quantify effort.
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