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Evaluation of a treadmill test for predicting the aerobic capacity of firefighters
Constance M Mier1, Ann L Gibson
1Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Barry University, 11300 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami Shores 33161-6695, USA. cmier@mail.barry.edu
Background:
As part of a comprehensive occupational medical program for fire departments in the USA, the National Fire Protection Association and The Fire Service Joint Labor Management Wellness/Fitness Initiative endorse a standardized submaximal test that uses the Gerkin treadmill protocol for predicting the maximal oxygen uptake (VO(2max)) of firefighters.
Aims:
To test the validity of the Gerkin treadmill protocol in healthy men and women.
Methods:
Fifty-four healthy men and women (age range 19-58 years) performed the Gerkin test and a treadmill run test to maximal exhaustion. Their heart rates were monitored continuously with an electrocardiogram during each test. During the VO(2max) test, the subjects' VO(2) was measured continuously using indirect calorimetry.
Results:
Although the predicted and observed VO(2max) values correlated (r = 0.70, P < 0.001 and standard error of estimate = 5.98 ml/kg/min), the mean values differed (49.8 +/- 8.3 and 41.8 +/- 5.8 ml/kg/min, respectively) (P < 0.001). The VO(2max) value was overestimated in 50 (93%) participants. The overestimation was >25% in 18 (33%) participants. Gender, age and VO(2max) did not affect the Gerkin protocol's predictability of VO(2max).
Conclusions:
The Gerkin treadmill protocol overpredicts VO(2max) in healthy men and women and, therefore, should not be used for predicting VO(2max) in individual firefighters, particularly if VO(2max) is a criterion for inclusion or exclusion from duty. At this time, a valid treadmill running test is needed for predicting the VO(2max) value of individual firefighters.
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