The role of anthropometrics in predicting the maximum oxygen consumption in emergency medicine students

Maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max) is an important measure of cardiovascular capacity to deliver oxygen to the working muscle at maximal exercise. Anthropometrics is one of the factors that contribute to the maximum oxygen consumption.

This study aimed to predict the maximum oxygen consumption based on anthropometrics in the emergency medicine students.

This cross-sectional study was conducted on the emergency medicine students (n = 56) at Qazvin University of Medical Sciences. Before the data collection, participants completed the consent form and Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q). Then, the maximum oxygen consumption and anthropometrics (dimensions and compositions) were measured using Gerkin treadmill test and using tape, anthropometer device and digital caliper respectively. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, one-way analysis of variance and multivariate linear regression.

The mean of maximum oxygen consumption was 4.11 lit/min in the emergency medicine students. There was a significant relationship between maximum oxygen consumption and anthropometrics (body dimensions and compositions including body fat, waist to hip circumference, and BMI) (p < 0.05). Also, the leg length, the body fat, and the BMI predicted 72% of oxygen consumption. The leg length and BMI had an important role in predicting the maximum oxygen consumption.

The body dimensions and compositions should be taken into consideration to select students and match their capabilities with required energy for the job.