Cardiovascular Fitness Procedures Manual

estimated VO 2 max. The reference cut-points used for adults 20-49 years are based on data from the

Aerobics Center Longitudinal Study (ACLS).1,^2 Low level of CV fitness is defined as an estimated VO 2

max below the 20th percentile of the ACLS data of the same gender and age group; moderate fitness is

defined as a value between the 20th and 59th percentile, and high fitness level is defined as at or above

the 60th percentile. The reference standards used for adolescents and young adults 12-19 years are based

on the criteria used in the FITNESSGRAM program.3,^4

General Statement

“Your fitness test was done on a treadmill. The test consisted of a warm-up, two exercise

periods (Stage 1 and Stage 2), and a recovery period. The table below shows your test results.

Stage Required time Your time Your heart rate

Warm-up

Stage 1

Stage 2

Recovery

2 min.

3 min.

3 min.

2-3 min.

During this exercise your maximum incline on the treadmill was ___ percent and your

maximum speed was _____ mph.

Compared with other people of your age and sex, your cardiovascular fitness level is <low,

moderate, high>.”

In addition to the general statement, the report will include the speed and grade of the

treadmill at each of the stages in the treadmill test and the length of time spent in each of the stages. SPs

will be given this report just before they leave the MEC. The report includes a phone number to call if

they have any questions about this or any part of the exam in the MEC.