Estimation of maximal oxygen uptake in New Zealanders of three age groups

An assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness has been made in New Zealanders of both sexes, in three age groups. Three separate methods were used to predict maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) from observations during submaximal exercise on a bicycle ergometer. The nomogram of Astrand was inappropriate for the prediction of VO2 max in most groups: extrapolation of the submaximal data gave values essentially in agreement with those calculated from the formula of von Dobeln, Astrand, Bergstrom (1967). Mean VO2 max of each of the male groups was 40.31 ml/kg (adults); 43.54 ml/kg (university students) and 52.92 ml/kg (secondary school students). Corresponding values for females were 38.91 ml/kg, 46.64ml/kg and 42.87ml/kg. These values put young New Zealanders into a low fitness category compared with populations studied in Norway, Sweden, Japan, USA, Britain, Peru and Canada.