[Relationship between step test index and maximal aerobic capacity in female adolescents]

The change pattern of step test index (STI) in female adolescents and its relationship with their maximal aerobic capacity were studied. Two hundred and thirteen girls aged 10 to 19 participated in the study. The physical and functional characteristics of the girls with higher STI scores were compared with those with lower ones. STI scores declined with age due to their increasing ratio of weight-to-height during puberty. The maximal aerobic working capacity was estimated by multiple regression analysis with the Quetelet Index (weight/height x 100) into the equation, and its accuracy of the prediction improved.