Queens College Step Test. This article explain about aerobic fitness test called Queens College Step Test. The objective of this test is to monitor the development of the athlete's cardiovascular system or to measure aerobic fitness level and estimate vo2max capacity.
Required resources
To undertake this test you will require:
- Step 16.25 inches or 41.3 cm high
- Stop watch
- Metronome or cadence tape
- Heart rate monitor (optional)
- Assistant.
How to conduct the queens college test?
The Queens College step test is conducted as follows:- Step up and down on the step for 3 minutes at the following rate:
• Male - 24 steps per minute
• Female - 22 steps per minute
- Use a metronome or have someone to help you keep to the required pace
- 5 seconds after finishing the test - count the heart beats for 15 seconds (PR).
Analysis
Analysis of the result is by comparing it with the results of previous tests. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement.
You can calculate your VO2max as follows:
- Male = 111.33 - (1.68 x PR)
- Female = 65.81 - (0.7388 x PR).
Normative data for the Queen's College step test
Multiply your PR value by 4.
The following are national norms for 16 to 19 year olds.
Gender
|
Excellent
|
Above Average
|
Average
|
Below Average
|
Poor
|
Male
|
<121
|
148-121
|
156-149
|
162- 157
|
>162
|
Female
|
<129
|
158-129
|
166- 159
|
170-167
|
>170
|
Table Reference: Davis B. et al; Physical Education and the Study of Sport, 2000
Target group
This test is suitable for active and sedentary athletes but not for individual', where the test would be contraindicated.
Reliability
Reliability would depend upon how strict the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test.
Validity
There are published VO2max tables and the correlation to actual VO2max is high.
Reference
Mackenzie, Brian. 2005. 101 Perforamnce Evalution Test. Electric World Plc. London.