The research question is: is the 8-minute self-paced (8SPV) VO2max test a valid method for measuring VO2 max? VO2 max is the highest rate at which oxygen can be consumed during intense exercise and reflects the efficiency of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. There are validated VO2 max protocols (ie. Bruce and 10-minute self-paced), however, existing protocols have evidence pointing toward peripheral fatigue being a limiting factor, therefore a shorter 8-minute test could lead to better VO2 max result. UWEC students will be recruited and three VO2max tests will be performed for each participant. The three protocols will be conducted using a treadmill and the VO2max will be measured using the metabolic cart. The tests include the 8-minute self-paced, 10-minute self-paced, and Bruce protocol. One-way repeated measures ANOVA will be implemented for comparing the VO2max across three protocols. The anticipated result is that the 8SPV will provide consistent results with the validated protocols. If validated, the 8SPV protocol can be used in future research.
