StairMaster Fit Test

The StairMaster Fit Test is a program that estimates maximal aerobic capacity based on heart- rate response to sub-maximal exercise.

The StairMaster branching protocol is a series of 3-minute stages of continuous exercise at increasing intensity. The first stage is a warm-up at approximately 4 METs. The intensity of the remaining stages is based on the heart rate response to the warm-up. The test is designed to raise the steady state heart rate of the subject to at least 115 beats/minute. It is important to remember that two consecutive heart rate measurements must be obtained above 115 beats/minute to predict VO2max. The test typically lasts from 6 to 15 minutes. The test will terminate if the heart rate does not continue to rise from state to stage.

In the StairMaster protocol, each work rate is performed for 3 minutes, with heart rates recorded during the final 4 seconds of the second and third minutes of each stage. If the heart rates are within 5 beats/min, then the heart rate during the last minute is plotted against the work rate, and the program advances to the next 3-minute stage. The program continues for two to four stages until two steady state heart rates above 115 beats/min are obtained in two consecutive stages. The line generated from the plotted points is then extended to the age- predicted maximal heart rate. A corresponding maximal work rate and VO2max can then be

calculated.

At the end of the 3rd minute of each stage, if the heart rates at the end of the 2nd and 3rd minute are not within 5 beats/min of each other, then that work rate is maintained for an additional minute. At the end of the 4th minute, the heart rate is compared to the heart rate at the end of the 3rd minute. If the heart rates are within 5 beats/min, then the heart rate during the 4th minute is plotted against the work rate. If the heart rate at the end of the 3rd and 4th minute are not within 5 beats/min, then the work rate is maintained for one more additional minute. If the heart rate at the end of the 4th and 5th minutes are within 5 beats/min, then the heart rate at the end of the 5th minute is plotted against the work rate. If the heart rate at the end of the 4th and 5th minutes are not within 5 beats/min, then the test failed.

Once two consecutive heart rate measurements are obtained above 115 beats/min range, then the test ends successfully and the results are displayed. Estimated maximum aerobic capacity is shown in ml/kg/min and METs. Next, the results are compared to normative values for others of the same age range and gender.

To use the Fitness Test program:

1.Put the chest strap on. Remember to wet the underneath of the chest strap, over the electrodes.

2.Press [ADVANCED PROGRAMS] workout key, followed by the Speed UP key. The controller will display “STAIRMASTER FIT TEST.”

3.The controller will then display “ENTER WEIGHT - LBS” (or “ENTER WEIGHT - KG” if in Metric mode). Enter your weight using the numeric key keypad.

4.The controller will display “ENTER AGE 10 -99.” Enter your age using the numeric keypad.