Comparative study of maximum aerobic capacity by three ergometries in untrained college women.

The maximum aerobic capacity (VO2 max) of young untrained Bengali girls aged between 22-24 years after maximum workload as determined by bicycle ergometer, standard step test and a treadmill is studied in 22 subjects. It was found that the VO2 peak in the treadmill exercise was significantly higher than that obtained by the step test and bicycle ergometer, in that order. On each type of ergometer, VO2 max was found to be positively correlated with body weight, body surface area, maximal pulmonary ventilation and maximal oxygen pulse.