38 Cardiorespiratory Conditioning
*To convert your weight from pounds to kg, divide by 2.2. **Estimate your maximal heart rate as
220 - your age.
Estimating Maximal Aerobic Capacity
Look at the example in Figure. Heart rate has been plotted against each energy
expenditure. Estimate your maximal heart rate as 220 - YOUR AGE. Plot your heart rate
values at each kcal/hr and draw the line of best fit through your points as in Figure (This
should be a fairly straight line). Extend the line so you can also plot your estimated maximal
heart rate on the line. Estimate your maximal aerobic capacity (in L/min), and then
normalize for body weight: divide your VO2max by your weight in kg. For example if your
maximal oxygen uptake was 4.2 L of oxygen/min (4,200 ml) as in the examples below, and
you weigh 85 kg, your normalized maximal oxygen uptake would be 4.2 L or 4,200 ml/85
Table 3-2. Stages and Work Rates for Cycle Ergometer
Exercise Testing
Stage Work Rates
0Warm-up
1 450 kcal/hr
2 550 kcal/hr
3 650 kcal/hr
4 750 kcal/hr
Table 3-3. Cycle Ergometer Test Form
Name:____________________ Age:_____
Weight in kg*:_____ Estimated Max HR**:_____
Stage Kcal/hr Heart Rate