Submaximal testing safely estimates aerobic fitness, which is a strong indicator of longevity and the ability to maintain independence later in life. A submaximal test allows assessment of aerobic fitness without requiring maximal effort, making it a gentler, safer alternative to VO₂max testing while still providing clinically and performance-relevant data. It can be used to identify individualized training zones, guide exercise prescription, track progress over time, and support return-to-exercise or performance planning without the risks and demands of maximal testing.
The test follows a graded exercise test protocol on either a treadmill or cycle ergometer, but instead of progressing to a 10/10 effort, the test is terminated at a defined intensity—typically around ~85% of age-predicted HRmax or another predetermined physiological cutoff.
Submax testing is ideal for individuals who are new to exercise, older adults, those with chronic conditions or injury history, or anyone for whom maximal testing is not appropriate or necessary.
The test can be completed with the VO₂ Master device to obtain respiratory data and ventilatory thresholds, or without gas analysis using heart rate and RPE as the primary data collection sources. In both cases, these data can be used for test–retest purposes.
Disclaimer:
This test will be conducted using a portable metabolic device (VO₂ Master), which is an alternative to a traditional laboratory-based metabolic cart. The VO₂ Master measures oxygen consumption (VO₂) but does not directly measure carbon dioxide production (VCO₂), which limits the ability to calculate respiratory exchange ratio (RER). While the device has been shown to provide valid and reliable data, there is a higher risk of data variability, including potential over- or under-calculation of VO₂max and less precise identification of ventilatory thresholds. In such cases, the examiner will estimate thresholds and VO₂max based on heart rate and VO₂ responses during the test.
60 minDurée de la séanceDurée unique
130 $ à 130 $Tarif dans cette cliniqueGénéralement 50 $ à 1 260 $ à Vancouver
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En quoi ça consiste
Most of the appointment is spent watching how you move and load your body — gait, squat, balance, mobility and strength work — with coaching and exercise adjustments in real time, and you leave with a clearer picture of your movement patterns and a plan to practise.
Habituellement réservé pour
Getting back into exercise safely
Movement that feels off or limited
Wanting form checked during training
Chez The Arbutus Club
Submaximal Exercise Test tel qu’offert par cette clinique — ses durées, ses tarifs et son équipe.
