Racial variation in work capacities and powers.

Large interindividual variation in work capacities and powers are often reported in the literature. The variations are attributed to such varied factors as age, sex, exercise training, and heredity, among others. Ethnic/racial origin as a putative causal factor of such variations has also been considered. Studies of subjects from various countries report aerobic power generally between 40 and 50 mL O2/kg.min-1, with a mean around 45 mL. Differences between groups are generally small and genuine racial differences in maximal aerobic power are lacking when allowance is made for other factors. There are, on the other hand, differences between racial groups in submaximal work efficiency and endurance performance. These differences, however, appear to result from differences in mechanical efficiency owing to test mode and/or level of habituation to the ergometer. Performances on maximal tests of short duration demonstrate some variation among racial groups, but again differences in mechanical efficiency cannot be ruled out. Thus there does not appear to be valid and reliable evidence to support the concept of clear racial differences in work capacities and powers.