The Validity of Submaximal Exercise Testing in Obese Women

Department

Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport

Authors

Gabrielle Ringenberg, Western Kentucky UniversityFollow

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Background: Submaximal exercise tests use heart rate responses to low-to-moderate intensity activity in order to predict cardiorespiratory fitness (VO_2max). Currently used tests may be inappropriate for obese populations as obese women have altered heart rate responses to exercise. The purpose of this project is to test the validity of the Modified Bruce Protocol submaximal treadmill test in obese women. Methods: Normal-weight (NWG) and obese women (OBG) completed the Modified Bruce submaximal treadmill test (to predict VO_2max using previously validated equations) and a maximal graded exercise test on a treadmill using the Standard Bruce Protocol (to obtain an actual VO_2max) on two separate occasions. The relationships between actual and predicted VO_2max values were analyzed using correlation coefficients. Results: 9 NWG (age: 23.1±8.0 y, body fat: 23.5±4.9%) and 9 OBG (age: 22.0±4.8 y, body fat: 36.9±4.4%) women participated. Actual and predicted VO_2max values were not correlated among the OBG (r=0.48, p=0.23) but were positively correlated in the NWG (r=0.71, p=0.03). Conclusions: Protocols for predicting fitness in NWG women do not appear to be valid in obese women. Separate equations should be considered in order to maximize the accuracy of exercise testing in obese women, and thus improve health care providers’ ability to evaluate patients and tailor exercise prescriptions.

Advisor(s) or Committee Chair

Dr. Rachel Tinius

Disciplines

Exercise Physiology | Exercise Science | Sports Medicine

Recommended Citation

Ringenberg, Gabrielle, "The Validity of Submaximal Exercise Testing in Obese Women" (2017). Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects. Paper 698.
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/stu_hon_theses/698