Test‐retest variability of VO_2max using total‐capture indirect calorimetry reveals linear relationship of VO₂ and Power

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the intra‐individual variation in VO2max of human subjects using total‐capture and free‐flow indirect calorimetry. Twenty‐seven men (27 ± 5 year; VO2max 49‐79 mL•kg−1•min−1) performed two maximal exertion tests (CPETs) on a cycle ergometer, separated by a 7 ± 2 day interval. VO2 and VCO2 were assessed using an indirect calorimeter (Omnical) with total capture of exhalation in a free‐flow airstream. Thirteen subjects performed a third maximal exertion test using a breath‐by‐breath calorimeter (Oxycon Pro). On‐site validation was deemed a requirement. For the Omnical, the mean within‐subject CV for VO2max was 1.2 ± 0.9% (0.0%‐4.4%) and for ergometer workload P max 1.3 ± 1.3% (0%‐4.6%). VO2max values with the Oxycon Pro were significantly lower in comparison with Omnical (P < 0.001; t test) with mean 3570 vs 4061 and difference SD 361 mL•min−1. Validation results for the Omnical with methanol combustion were −0.05 ± 0.70% (mean ± SD; n = 31) at the 225 mL•min−1 VO2 level and −0.23 ± 0.80% (n = 31) at the 150 mL•min−1 VCO2 level. Results using gas infusion were 0.04 ± 0.75% (n = 34) and −0.99 ± 1.05% (n = 24) over the respective 500‐6000 mL•min−1 VO2 and VCO2 ranges. Validation results for the Oxycon Pro in breath‐by‐breath mode were ‐ 2.2 ± 1.6% (n = 12) for VO2 and 5.7 ± 3.3% (n = 12) for VCO2 over the 1000‐4000 mL•min−1 range. On a Visual analog scale, participants reported improved breathing using the free‐flow indirect calorimetry (score 7.6 ± 1.2 vs 5.1 ± 2.7, P = 0.008). We conclude that total capturing free‐flow indirect calorimetry is suitable for measuring VO2 even with the highest range. VO2max was linear with the incline in P max over the full range.

Aerobic Exercise Training Improves Cerebral Blood Flow and Executive Function: A Randomized, Controlled Cross-Over Trial in Sedentary Older Men

“…VO 2 peak increased significantly by 10% between the intervention and control group after 8 weeks, while P max already increased after 4 weeks. These concomitant increases were expected based on the linear relationship between VO 2 peak and P max (Schoffelen et al, 2019). The consistent increase in VO 2 peak and P max of our trial emphasizes the effectiveness of the intervention.…”

A 2 Week Cross-over Intervention with a Low Carbohydrate, High Fat Diet Compared to a High Carbohydrate Diet Attenuates Exercise-Induced Cortisol Response, but Not the Reduction of Exercise Capacity, in Recreational Athletes

“…Participants were allowed to eat and drink before the test; nothing specific was prescribed. Oxygen consumption was measured with indirect calorimetry (Oxycon Carefusion, Hoechberg, Germany), and VO2 max was recorded [19]. Heart rate was monitored by using a heart rate monitor (Polar T31-coded, Oulu, Finland) and connected exercise tracker (Polar FT1).…”

Validity and reproducibility of VO2max testing in a respiration chamber

“…[6][7][8] For precise measurement of oxygen consumption, sophisticated gas analysis equipment is required. 9 Both inhaled and exhaled air analyses, and airflow through the system are required to accurately assess oxygen consumption. Several methods are available to achieve this.…”

“…For breathing, a continuous flow of air passes the face mask, capturing all exhaled air in diluted mode, and the total airstream is analyzed for oxygen and CO 2 concentrations. 9,15 The Omnical system and the breath-by-breath system depend on a mouthpiece or face mask to connect the exercising participant to the gas analysis system. 9,12 Testing for the maximal cardiorespiratory capacity in a respiration chamber (ie, gas analysis in a chamber) could provide new opportunities for maximal or high-intensity intermittent sub-maximal exercise testing.…”