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VO2 Test
The VO2 program is based on the YMCA protocol and is a sub-
maximal test that uses pre-determined, fixed work levels that are
determined based on the heart rate readings measured as the test
progresses.
At the end of the test a VO2 score will be displayed. VO2 stands for
Volume of Oxygen uptake which is a measurement of how much
oxygen you need to perform a known amount of work. The YMCA
protocol employs two to four stages, lasting 3 minutes each, of
continuous exercise (see charts below). You will be prompted to
choose either, Male or Female at the beginning of the test. This
choice determines which protocol will be used during the test as
shown in the charts below. The only caveat is if you are a very
de-conditioned male you may need to choose option Female. If you
are a very conditioned female you may need to choose option Male.
VO2 test programming
• When the VO2 key is pressed the message window displays:
GERKIN. This is the first of 9 different tests available: Gerkin, WFI
(Wellness Fitness Initiative), Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, PEB
(Physical Efficiency Battery), Coast Guard, and CTT (Chester T
readmill Test). The initial test is Gerkin; to select a different test
press the VO2 key again and the next test will be shown. Continue
to press the VO2 key until the test you want is shown in the
message window. To select your desired test, press Confirm.
• (Except CTT-performance)You are now prompted to enter your Age.
You may adjust the age using the Plus and Minus key then press
Confirm to continue.
• You are now prompted to enter your Weight. You may adjust the
weight using the Plus and Minus key then press enter to continue
• (Only for WFI)You are now prompted to enter your Height. You may
adjust the age using the Plus and Minus key then press Confirm to
continue.
• The Message Window will prompt you to enter your Gender. Use the
Plus and Minus keys to change and press the Confirm key to accept
and proceed on to the next screen.
• Now press Start to begin the test.