Non-exercise estimation of VO2max using the international physical activity questionnaire

Susan M. Schembre, Deborah A. Riebe

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

32 Scopus citations

Abstract

Non-exercise equations developed from self-reported physical activity can estimate maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) as well as sub-maximal exercise testing. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire is the most widely used and validated self-report measure of physical activity. This study aimed to develop and test a VO2max estimation equation derived from the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. College-aged males and females (n = 80) completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form and performed a maximal exercise test. The estimation equation was created with multivariate regression in a gender-balanced subsample of participants, equally representing five levels of fitness (n = 50) and validated in the remaining participants (n = 30). The resulting equation explained 43% of the variance in measured VO2max (standard error of estimate = 5.45 mlkg-1min -1). Estimated VO2max for 87% of individuals fell within acceptable limits of error observed with sub-maximal exercise testing (20% error). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form can be used to successfully estimate VO2max as well as sub-maximal exercise tests. Development of other population-specific estimation equations is warranted.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)168-181
Number of pages14
JournalMeasurement in Physical Education and Exercise Science
Volume15
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2011
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • cardiorespiratory fitness
  • estimation equation
  • international physical activity questionnaire
  • maximal oxygen uptake

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

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