Varied intensities of training, predicted maximum oxygen uptake and the minimum threshold hypothesis

In this study, 24 sedentary first-year male university students aged 17 to 24 yr. were assigned to one of four groups. Three of the groups underwent a 6-wk. training program consisting of a 30-min. bicycle ergometer ride, three times per week. A fourth group acted as a control. The experimental groups trained at workload intensities corresponding to predetermined heart rates of 125, 140, and 155 bpm, respectively. Analysis of scores indicated that changes in aerobic capacity occurred only if the intensity of training exceeded a minimal level. Essentially, these results replicated data from other studies.