Dear ABIS Community Members,
This week, our DP sports science students completed a field test to extend their understanding of VO2 max (maximum oxygen consumption, measured in ml/kg/min). VO2 max is a good indicator of an individual’s fitness level, especially for athletes competing in endurance events. A simple field test to measure VO2 max is called the Rockport Walking Fitness Test.
The RWF test procedure requires the individual to walk 1.6 kilometers on a treadmill or any flat surface. The time to complete the distance plus the individual’s heart rate were recorded after the test – a mathematical formula was then applied to calculate their VO2 max. A higher VO2 max corresponds to a higher level of fitness. To provide context, the average person’s VO2 max falls in the range of 35-40 ml/kg/min, while elite cyclists typically have a VO2 max ranging from 80-90 ml/kg/min.
Mr. Fernando
