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Rockport Formula:
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The Rockport Fitness Walking Test is a submaximal test that estimates VO2max (maximal oxygen consumption) from the time it takes to complete a 1-mile walk, heart rate at the end of the walk, and demographic factors. It provides a practical assessment of cardiovascular fitness.
The calculator uses the Rockport formula:
Where:
Explanation: The equation accounts for the relationship between walking performance, heart rate response, and demographic factors to estimate maximal oxygen consumption.
Details: VO2max is considered the gold standard measure of cardiovascular fitness. It helps assess aerobic endurance, monitor training progress, and evaluate overall health status.
Tips: Enter weight in pounds, age in years, 1-mile walk time in minutes, and heart rate in bpm. All values must be valid positive numbers for accurate calculation.
Q1: How accurate is the Rockport test?
A: The Rockport test provides a reasonably accurate estimate of VO2max for most healthy adults, with correlation coefficients around 0.88-0.92 compared to direct measurement.
Q2: What are normal VO2max values?
A: VO2max values vary by age, gender, and fitness level. Generally, values above 40 ml/kg/min for men and 35 ml/kg/min for women are considered good for most age groups.
Q3: When should the test be performed?
A: The test should be performed when well-rested, not immediately after eating, and under consistent environmental conditions for best results.
Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: The formula may be less accurate for highly trained athletes, elderly individuals, or those with certain medical conditions that affect heart rate response.
Q5: Can this test be used for clinical assessment?
A: While useful for fitness assessment, clinical decisions should be based on more comprehensive testing under medical supervision when necessary.