Cycle Ergometer Test Demo

Summary

In this video, a fitness professional guides Alera through a VO2 max test using a cycling ergometer. The test measures aerobic capacity by increasing cycling intensity while monitoring Alera's heart rate. The professional adjusts the bike saddle, sets the initial resistance, and tracks Alera’s performance through various stages, aiming to keep the heart rate within 85% of its maximum. The test ends with a cool-down period and heart rate monitoring to gauge recovery. Throughout, the professional ensures that Alera maintains proper cadence and provides feedback on the test's difficulty.

Takeaways

• 😀 The test measures aerobic capacity (VO2 max) using a cycling ergometer protocol.
• 😀 The cycling test involves gradually increasing intensities based on heart rate responses.
• 😀 The goal is to keep the heart rate between 110 and 85% of its maximum during the test.
• 😀 Each stage of the test lasts 3 minutes, with incremental increases in workload after each stage.
• 😀 Before starting, the bike saddle is adjusted to the rider's hip height to ensure proper leg extension.
• 😀 The pedaling cadence must be maintained at 50 RPM (revolutions per minute), with a metronome to assist.
• 😀 The initial workload is set at 0.5 kp (kiloponds), and resistance is gradually increased based on heart rate.
• 😀 Heart rate is checked at the end of each minute during each stage to monitor progress.
• 😀 If heart rate remains stable (less than 5 beats per minute variation), the workload is increased.
• 😀 The test is stopped when the heart rate reaches 85% of its maximum or when the subject reports the effort as too intense.
• 😀 After the test, a cool-down period is included, where resistance is reduced and the subject can pedal at a comfortable pace.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the VO2 max test in this script?

The purpose of the VO2 max test is to measure aerobic capacity by having the individual cycle at varying intensities while monitoring their heart rate. The test helps to determine the maximum oxygen uptake capacity of the person.

How are the cycling intensities determined during the test?

Cycling intensities are determined based on the individual's heart rate response. After each stage, the intensity is adjusted to keep the heart rate between 110 and 85 percent of its maximum.

What is the target heart rate range during the test?

The target heart rate range during the test is between 110 and 85 percent of the individual's maximum heart rate.

How long does each stage of the cycling test last?

Each stage of the cycling test lasts for three minutes.

What is the role of the metronome in the test?

The metronome is set to 50 RPM (revolutions per minute) to help the individual maintain a consistent pedaling cadence throughout the test.

What is the significance of monitoring heart rate during the test?

Monitoring heart rate is essential for ensuring the individual is working within the desired intensity range and for determining when to increase the workload or stop the test based on cardiovascular response.

What happens if the heart rate reaches steady state during the test?

If the heart rate reaches steady state, defined as less than five beats per minute variation over two minutes, the intensity of the cycling is increased to further challenge the participant.

How does the test determine when to stop?

The test is stopped when the heart rate is within 10 beats of 85 percent of the maximum heart rate and the participant's perceived effort indicates they have reached their maximal effort.

What is the purpose of the cool-down phase after the test?

The cool-down phase allows the individual to gradually reduce intensity and recover, helping their heart rate return to normal levels and promoting a safe recovery from the exertion.

How is the resistance adjusted during the test?

The resistance is gradually increased by increments (e.g., from 0.5 kp to 2.5 kp) based on the heart rate response and the participant's perceived difficulty level, ensuring they are working at an appropriate intensity.