Validity of the W170 test for predicting maximal oxygen intake

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Cardiorespiratory Fitness Assessment

Background:

• Pedalling frequency influences perceived exertion during exercise.
• Higher pedalling frequencies may offer more accurate physiological data for low-fit individuals.
• The validity of the Wahlund-Sjostrand W170 test at varying pedalling speeds requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the validity of the Wahlund-Sjostrand W170 test at 50 and 80 revolutions per minute (rpm).
• To compare the accuracy of W170 test predictions at different pedalling frequencies.
• To assess the impact of pedalling speed on maximal oxygen intake estimations.

Main Methods:

• Maximal oxygen intake (VO2 max) was measured using open-circuit spirometry.
• Thirty male college students completed W170 tests at 50 rpm and 80 rpm.
• Validity coefficients were calculated by comparing predicted and measured maximal oxygen intake.

Main Results:

• The W170 test demonstrated higher validity at 50 rpm (rxy = 0.73) than at 80 rpm (rxy = 0.64).
• Maximal oxygen intake predicted at 80 rpm significantly differed from criterion values and 50 rpm predictions.
• Elevated heart rate at 80 rpm, particularly at lower workloads, contributed to prediction discrepancies.

Conclusions:

• The conventional pedalling speed of 50 rpm yields more valid results for the Wahlund-Sjostrand W170 test.
• Higher pedalling frequencies (80 rpm) may compromise the accuracy of submaximal exercise tests for cardiorespiratory fitness.
• Exercise test protocols should consider pedalling frequency for optimal validity.