Validation of the maximal MET prediction equations on the Schwinn Air-Dyne

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the validity of the 2redicted maximal MET equations on the Schwinn Air-Dyne bicycle ergometer for a population of females between the ages of 19 and 29 years. Twenty-five female Ss volunteered to take part in the study. Twenty-one of the 25 Ss reached a V02 max (l/min) that was defined by 1 of 2 criteria for a "true" maximal test. Predicted maximal METs were compared to measured n~aximal METs obtained while exercising on the Schwinn Air-Dyne. Two heart rates were obtained during an 8-minute submaximal test. Predicted maximal METs were determined for each subject in an equation that used an age predicted maximal heart rate and the two submaximal heart rates. The "true" VO, max test was used to determine measured maximal METs. A Pearson product-moment correlation and paired t-test revealed a high positive correlation (r - .88) and a significant difference between the means of predicted maximal METs and measured maximal METs (p < .05). The difference between the means of predicted and measured maximal METs was 4.6%. Predicted maximal METs underestimated measured maximal METs by 0.56 METs. The predicted maximal MET equations were therefore considered to be valid for determining maximal METs for purposes other than research.