How to Test the VO2 Max for Your Kid

A VO2max test measures the total amount of oxygen your body can use in one minute during intense exercise, per pound of body weight. A high VO2max score indicates a high level of aerobic fitness. VO2max doesn't vary greatly in healthy children, averaging 40 to 50 ml/kg/min. Aerobic exercise does not significantly increase VO2max in prepubescent children. Sports medicine labs can test VO2max by measuring blood oxygen levels, heart rate and blood pressure while a child is exercising strenuously on a treadmill or stationary bike. You can also accurately estimate a child's VO2max using a simple stationary bike test and a VO2max calculator.

Things You'll Need

  • Stationary bike with ergometer
  • Heart rate monitor (if using a bike without a built-in monitor)
  • Stopwatch
  • Pen
  • Paper
  • Exercise clothing
  • Child's weight
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Instructions

  1. Watt Max Bicycle Test for Children

    • 1
      The Max Watt Bicycle Test was adapted to measure VO2max in children.

      Adjust the stationary bike seat to accommodate the child's leg length. The child's leg should be almost straight, with a slight bend at the knee, at the lowest pedal position. The balls of the feet should easily reach the pedal in this position.

    • 2
      Use the heart rate monitor to track and record pulse rate during the test.

      Have the child warm up at an easy pace for five minutes. Make sure that the heart rate sensors in the bike's handlebar grips are picking up the child's pulse on the display. If you're using a separate heart rate monitor, strap it around the child's chest and use the wristwatch display to track the child's pulse rate.

    • 3
      When the child's pace drops below 30 rpm, the test ends.

      Use the console to adjust the pedal resistance to 25 watt. Begin timing. Every three minutes, increase the resistance by 25 watt until the child can no longer pedal at or above 30 revolutions per minute or rpm.

    • 4
      Record the maximum watt level and pedaling time.

      When the child begins to fatigue, record the watt level and begin timing until the child's pace drops below 30 rpm. If you increase the watt level, start the timing over. Record the highest watt level and pedaling time.

    • 5
      Use an online fitness calculator to find your child's VO2max.

      Use an online fitness calculator, like the one at Health-calc.com, and plug in the values for your child's age, gender, weight, maximum watts and time into the calculator to determine VO2max.