Prediction of maximal aerobic power in man: a nomographic approach

Direct estimation of maximal aerobic power is an intricate procedure and requires the facility of a well-equipped laboratory. Attempts have been made, therefore, to develop linear and nonlinear regression equations for its indirect assessment, but many biomedical scientists have difficulty in using these statistically based equations. Bearing this in mind, this paper constructs two nomograms for predicting maximal aerobic power. The first nomogram, based on cardiorespiratory strains, is more precise but requires the facility of an equipped laboratory owing to the involvement of some physiological variables; the second nomogram, based on the two variables body weight and time for a 3.2 km run, does not require any laboratory facility for prediction of maximal aerobic power. Both nomograms have limited validity. The first is most reliable in the range 1.83-3.28 l.min-1; the second is best in the range 1.76-3.06 l.min-1 of maximal aerobic power.