A Maximal Rowing-Ergometer Protocol to Predict Maximal Oxygen Uptake in Female Rowers

Laboratory assessment of maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O2max) is physically and mentally draining for the athlete and requires expensive laboratory equipment. Indirect measurement of V˙O2max could provide a practical alternative to laboratory testing.

To examine the relationship between the maximal power output (MPO) in an individualized 7 × 2-minute incremental test (INCR-test) and V˙O2max and to develop a regression equation to predict V˙O2max from MPO in female rowers.

Twenty female club and Olympic rowers (development group) performed the INCR-test on a Concept2 rowing ergometer to determine V˙O2max and MPO. A linear regression analysis was used to develop a prediction of V˙O2max from MPO. Cross-validation analysis of the prediction equation was performed using an independent sample of 10 female rowers (validation group).

A high correlation coefficient (r = .94) was found between MPO and V˙O2max. The following prediction equation was developed: V˙O2max (mL·min-1) = 9.58 × MPO (W) + 958. No difference was found between the mean predicted V˙O2max in the INCR-test (3480 mL·min-1) and the measured V˙O2max (3530 mL·min-1). The standard error of estimate was 162 mL·min-1, and the percentage standard error of estimate was 4.6%. The prediction model only including MPO, determined during the INCR-test, explained 89% of the variability in V˙O2max.

The INCR-test is a practical and accessible alternative to laboratory testing of V˙O2max.