Maximal short term Exercise Capacity in Healthy Subjects Aged 15-70 Years

1. Fifty males and 50 females, 15-71 years of age, exercised maximally for 30 s on an isokinetic ergometer at a pedalling frequency of 60 rev./min. Results were compared with maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max.) obtained in a progressive incremental exercise test. 2. Total work in 30 s was higher in males than females, declined linearly by about 6% per decade of age (r = −0.65), and was related closely to height (r = 0.75) and to lean thigh volume estimated anthropometrically (r = 0.84). A close association with vital capacity (r = 0.86) was also found that accounted statistically for the combined effects of age and height. 3. The percentage decline in power during 30 s (fatigue index) was lower in subjects reporting greater leisure activity. 4. A close relationship was found between total work in 30 s and Vo2 max. (r = 0.86), with vital capacity and leisure activity exerting additional influences on Vo2 max. (P < 0.001; multiple r = 0.93). 5. The well-established reduction with age in Vo2 max. is associated with an apparent parallel reduction in the power output capacity of large muscle groups recruited in heavy dynamic leg exercise.

Maximal short term Exercise Capacity in Healthy Subjects Aged 15-70 Years Journal Articles