Is V̇O_2peak a Valid Estimation of V̇O_2max in Swimmers with Physical Impairments?

Purpose: Peak and maximal oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively) are used in assessing aerobic power. For swimmers with physical impairments, it is unclear whether the physiological variables obtained in 200-m and Nx200-m tests are similar. The objective of this study is to assess the validity of [Formula: see text] as an estimator of [Formula: see text] and complementary physiological variables, in particular, carbon dioxide production ([Formula: see text]), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), minute-ventilation ([Formula: see text] and absolute (HR) and relative (%HRmax) heart rates-which were obtained in a time trial test (200-m) and an incremental intermittent test (Nx200-m) performed by swimmers with physical impairments. Methods: Eleven well-trained swimmers with physical impairments performed 200-m all-out and Nx200-m from low to all-out (controlled by a visual pacer), both with a respiratory valve system and a portable gas analyzer. Results: A paired Student's t-test showed no statistical difference (p > .05) for all comparisons. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.97 and 0.98 for [Formula: see text] in l/min and ml/kg/min, respectively; ICC = 0.75 to 0.9 for [Formula: see text] (l/min and ml/kg/min),[Formula: see text] (in l/min) and HR (beats/min); ICC = 0.5 and 0.75 for %HRmax; and ICC < 0.5 for RER. Passing-Bablok regression showed that the dispersions were acceptable, considering the proportionality, except for HR and %HRmax. Bland-Altman method showed a high level of agreement for all variables. Conclusions: The [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], as well as the physiological variables [Formula: see text] and HR obtained, respectively, by 200-m and Nx200-m tests in swimmers with physical impairment were not different.