Verification Trials Can Create the Illusion of VO 2max in Addition to Contributing to its Confirmation
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: ABSTRACT This study examined whether constant‐workload verification trials performed at intensities below, at, and above the ramp‐incremental peak power output (PPO) contribute to confirming maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O 2max ). Fifteen trained to well‐trained male cyclists (V̇O 2max : 63.6 ± 5.6 mL·kg −1 ·min −1 ) completed maximal ramp testing followed by seven randomized verification trials (80%–110% PPO at 5% intervals) on separate days. Differences in V̇O 2 responses were analyzed using linear mixed‐effects models. Effect size was calculated using Hedges' g. The peak V̇O 2 attained during the verification trials was expressed relative to the ramp‐derived V̇O 2max and classified as lower (< 95%), within normal variability (95%–105%), or higher (> 105%). The peak V̇O 2 values at 80%, 105%, and 110% PPO were significantly lower than ramp‐derived V̇O 2max ( p < 0.05), whereas no significant differences were observed at 85%, 90%, and 95% PPO. Effect sizes were small at 85%–95% PPO (Hedges' g = 0.29–0.32), medium at 100%–105% PPO (Hedges' g = 0.63–0.66), and large at 80% and 110% PPO (Hedges' g = 1.21–1.34). Of 105 verification trials, 81 were within ±5% of ramp V̇O 2max , 22 were lower (mainly at 80% and 110% PPO), and two exceeded ramp V̇O 2max (at 85% and 95% PPO). Although verification trials did not meaningfully contribute to the verification of V̇O 2max , trials performed at 85%–95% PPO provided the best chances of confirming V̇O 2max in trained individuals. Interpretation of verification trials relative to ramp‐derived PPO is protocol dependent, which may limit generalizability across different ramp designs.
DOI: 10.1111/sms.70226
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,550
OpenAlex ID: W7130433732