VO2MAX test protocol for simulated cross-country skiing

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a simulated cross-country skiing (XC) V02max test protocol for use with the NordiCare Strider (NS). The three variables that control workload on the NS (resistance, speed, and elevation) were assessed during a pilot study. A protocol for the NS was developed from the findings of the pilot study and was compared to a modified Balke treadmill (TM) V02max test (self-selected running speed with an increase in grade of 2.5% every 2 min). Volunteer male cross-country skiers (N = 14) served as subjects and completed the tests in random order. When the physiological responses from the XC and TM tests were compared there was no significant (p > 0.05) difference in VO2 L.min-1(4.17 versus 4.29), VO2 ml.kg-1.min-1(56.2 versus 57.7), RER (1.15 versus 1.13), HR (183 versus 184). and RPE (17.8 versus 17.9), respectively. It was concluded that the XC test was a valid VO2max test for cross-country skiers.