Validation of an equation for predicting energy cost of arm ergometry in women

Few studies have examined the validity of metabolic equations for the prediction of energy cost (VO(2)) of arm ergometry in women. Therefore, the purpose of this study was (a) to compare directly measured and predicted VO(2) values using the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) equation and (b) to develop and validate a prediction equation for women. A sample of 60 female subjects with mean (+/-SD) age, weight and height 26.5 +/- 14.4 years, 61.5 +/- 7.6 kg, 163.3 +/- 6.0 cm, respectively, was randomly assigned to an equation group (N = 40) and a cross validation group (N = 20). All subjects performed an incremental arm ergometry test (10 W increases every 2 min), until termination criteria were met. Repeated measures ANOVA indicated significant differences between the measured VO(2) and ACSM predicted VO(2) during all the incremental test work rate. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to develop the following upper body exercise VO(2) prediction equation: VO(2)(ml . kg(-1) . min(-1) = 23.461 - (0.272 x Body Weight) + (0.403 x watts) [R(2) = 0.82, SEE = 2.79] Cross validation indicated lower variability using the current prediction equation. An additional independent sample of 13 subjects performed a 30-min steady-state test at 40% of their pre-determined maximal work rate. VO(2) measured during the 30 min steady-state test (was significantly different P < 0.05) from the ACSM prediction at all time intervals. There were no significant differences using the above equation following the 5 min time interval. Therefore, a new equation is proposed as a means of providing a gender-specific energy cost prediction equation.