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Wheelchair VO2 max Test

Testing and measurement are the means of collecting information upon which subsequent performance evaluations and decisions are made. In the analysis, we need to consider factors influencing the results.

Objective

To monitor the athlete's level of aerobic fitness.

Required Resources

To conduct this test, you will require:

  • 400-metre track - marked every 100 metres
  • Racing Wheelchair
  • Stopwatch
  • Assistant

How to conduct the test

Based on work by Franklin et al. (1990)[1], the test comprises seeing how far an athlete can travel in twelve minutes. The assistant should record the total distance covered to the nearest 100 metres.

Assessment

The following table provides an assessment of your test result:

Metres Assessment
>2560 Excellent
2171 - 2560 Above Average
1381 - 2170 Average
1010 - 1380 Below Average
<1010 Poor

Enter the total distances covered to estimate your VO2 max and select the 'Calculate' button.

Distance metres     VO2 Max mls/kg/min   Assessment

For an analysis of your VO2 max score, see the VO2 max page.

Analysis

Analysis of the result is by comparing it with previous tests' results. It is expected that the analysis would indicate an improvement with appropriate training between each test.

Target Group

This test is suitable for wheelchair athletes but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

Reliability

Test reliability refers to how a test is consistent and stable in measuring its intended measure. Reliability will depend upon how strict the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test. The following link provides various factors influencing the results and test reliability.

Validity

This test provides a means to monitor training on the athlete's physical development. Test validity refers to the degree to which the test measures what it claims to measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions based on test scores are appropriate and meaningful. For assessing your Vo2 max, see the VO2 max normative data tables.

Advantages

  • Minimal equipment required
  • Simple to set up and conduct
  • The athlete can administer the test

Disadvantages

  • Specialist equipment required
  • Specific facilities required
  • Assistant required to administer the test

References

  1. FRANKLIN, B.A. et al. (1990) Field test estimation of maximal oxygen consumption in wheelchair users. Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 71 (8), p. 574-578

Page Reference

If you quote information from this page in your work, then the reference for this page is:

  • MACKENZIE, B. (2007) Wheelchair VO2 max Test [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/wheelchairtest.htm [Accessed