Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 29, 2026

Conducting Maximal and Submaximal Endurance Exercise Testing to Measure Physiological and Biological Responses to Acute Exercise in Humans
Published on: October 17, 2018
The ability of a submaximal exercise test to predict maximal exercise capacity in patients with heart failure
Abstract:
We investigated the ability of a submaximal exercise test to predict the maximal aerobic potential and hence exercise capacity of patients with chronic heart failure. Heart rate, oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production were measured continuously during treadmill exercise in 29 patients with chronic heart failure (NYHA Class II-III). The anaerobic threshold was determined as the oxygen consumption at which carbon dioxide production increased non-linearly relative to oxygen consumption. Maximal oxygen consumption could not be predicted from the heart rate response to submaximal exercise. Oxygen consumption at the anaerobic threshold (28 patients) and at a respiratory quotient of 1 (23 patients) did predict maximal oxygen consumption (r = 0.93, r = 0.88, respectively). Measurement of oxygen consumption during submaximal exercise can be used to assess maximal exercise capacity in patients with heart failure.
Related Concept Videos
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Exercise and Cardiac Output
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Exercise Stress Test
Exercise stress testing, commonly known as a treadmill test, is a noninvasive procedure used to evaluate cardiovascular function and diagnose heart conditions.
Definition
An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to exertion using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Chest electrodes record the heart's electrical activity through an ECG, and blood pressure is monitored regularly.
Purposes
Heart Failure IV: Classification and Diagnostic Evaluation

