About the Test: We use state of the art technology (Parvomedics metabolic cart) to measure aerobic fitness, or VO2 max. VO2 is a measure of the amount of oxygen your body can utilize during exercise. This is the gold standard measure of aerobic fitness.
What to expect: The goal of the test is to gradually increase your effort until the point of maximal fatigue. We will first fit you with a mask (to capture your breath) a heart rate monitor, and a bike. Once you begin pedaling, we gradually increase the resistance of the bike until you reach a point of maximal fatigue. We monitor your heart rate, exertion level and V02 levels to determine when you have reached your maximum capacity. The test itself takes 15-20 minutes to complete followed by a debrief to interpret your numbers. The entire process takes 45-60 minutes.
Pre-test Instructions
- Arrive healthy and free of any respiratory condition or illness within 2 weeks of testing.
- Wear comfortable athletic clothing and training shoes.
- Avoid strenuous exercise the day before the test.
- Consume plenty of water in the 12 hours prior to testing.
- Normal diet for two days leading up to the test
- Eating on the day of the test:
- Morning testing: Light snack 1-1.5 hours prior
- Afternoon testing: Normal breakfast and mid-morning snack, lunch 3 hours prior to test
- Eating on the day of the test:
- Avoid smoking, caffeine, alcohol and supplements 12—24 hours prior to the test.
Who can test: There is a bit of risk involved with this test. Therefore, we only accept individuals identified as 'low risk' for cardiovascular disease. If you meet any of the following criteria, you would be considered moderate to high risk and unable to complete this test:
- Age (men over 45, women over 55 years)
- Family history of cardiovascular disease
- Smoker
- High blood pressure (untreated)
- High cholesterol (untreated)
- Diagnosed with chronic disease (CVD, diabetes, cancer, COPD, etc.)
Cost:
- University of Iowa Students - $100
- University of Iowa Employees - $100
- Non UI Community Members - $125
Where?
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All tests are performed at the CHC in the Iowa Bioscience Innovation Facility, Room 115.