Physical fitness is defined as the body’s ability to make adequate physiological adjustments to the stresses imposed on it by a specific task. Research findings have also indicated physical fitness to be the body’s ability to transport and deliver oxygen to the tissues to maintain continuous activity. The most accurate way to assess aerobic capacity is the direct measurement of maximal oxygen consumption, also known as a VO2 max, during incremental exercise. When an individual exercises there is an increase of oxygen consumption, which is the result of the individual breathing more deeply and frequently. In order to measure oxygen consumption in an individual oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) need to be analyzed. Then to calculate the rate …show more content…
HIIT is a method of training that involves performing intervals of high intensity exercise that are spread with rest intervals of lower intensity exercise. The specific intensity and duration of each high and low intensity interval can be modified to suit the training goals of the individual. However, in the case of overall improvement of VO2 max , the most effective approach is to maximize the total amount of training time that is spent close to or at the individuals VO2 max (Helgerud et al. 2007). The HIIT program consists of four steps. In step one the length and intensity of the high intensity interval is determined. To improve VO2 max high intensity intervals should be performed at an intensity of roughly 90% of the subjects VO2 max, and the length of each high intensity period should be roughly 75% of the maximum amount of time the subject could last before fatiguing. In step two the length and intensity of the rest interval is determined. This interval varies depending on the subjects fitness level, …show more content…
No doctor has to be present for this test to be run and there is less equipment required to properly conduct the test. As a result of the VO2 max being predicted by using calculations, an individual does not have to reach maximal exertion and therefor the body is not put under maximal stress. This makes the submaximal exercise test safer and easier to be performed by an older individual. In addition submaximal graded exercise tests can be administered to participants of various fitness levels, making the tests time-efficient and cost-effective. According to American Council on Exercise, a single exercise testing session can provide an accurate indication of your current aerobic fitness level, and can be a useful tool for tracking your fitness improvements across a consistent workout program. Disadvantages are that the submaximal test is not efficient for highly trained or athletic