·
The
fitness test will require approximately 30 minutes. If you are taking
beta-blockers, you should schedule the test at the time of day that you
typically exercise, if possible.
·
You
will be given specific instructions for how to prepare for the test.
o Wear comfortable walking or running
shoes and a loose-fitting shirt that allows for a blood pressure cuff to be
placed on your upper arm. A heart rate monitor (chest strap type) and ECG
electrodes may be used for monitoring purposes. Women should wear a blouse or
top that buttons down the front and avoid restrictive undergarments such as tights
or panty hose.
o Don't eat or drink (except water) or
use tobacco for at least three hours prior to the test.
o If you take insulin and your fitness
test is scheduled in the morning after a 12 hour fast, wait until after the
fitness test to take your insulin. Take all other medications as usual. Bring
all your medications with you to the test.
o Avoid physical activity as much as
possible on the day of the test (don't work out before the test). For a maximal
fitness test, do not perform any strenuous exercise on the day before the test.
·
You
will be asked to read and sign an Informed Consent that explains the purpose,
benefits, and risks associated with the test. You will be given an opportunity
to ask questions.
·
You
will complete a brief health history survey to help determine if it is
acceptably safe for you to be tested.
·
The
fitness professional who is administering your test will explain the test
procedures to you in detail, including how to communicate during the test.
·
Your heart rate and blood pressure will be measured at rest.
Your height and weight may be measured.
·
If a stationary cycle is used for the test, the seat height
will be adjusted to fit you.
·
A
comfortable breathing mask will be placed over your mouth and nose. The air you
breathe will be the air present in the room. You will need to breathe through
your mouth only. Tubes from the facemask
are connected to the VO2 P.A.S., which will analyze the air that is exhaled
while you exercise.
·
You
will begin walking or pedaling at a predetermined speed.
·
If
a multiple stage test is used, the technician will monitor the time in each
stage, take your heart rate, and adjust the workload as you progress through
the test.
·
Your
blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored during the test.
·
You
will be monitored closely during the test. The fitness professional will ask:
"How are you doing?" But, don't wait for him/her to ask how you feel
if you are feeling badly in any way. Let the fitness professional know
immediately if you are having problems.
·
You will be asked to provide a rating of how hard the
exercise feels to you using a scale on a chart. Review the information about
the Ratings of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale to become familiar with the scale
before having a test.
·
Do
not get off the treadmill or cycle suddenly when the test is completed. When
the test is completed, you will continue walking or pedaling at an easy
intensity to cool down for a period of approximately three minutes. The
cool-down period allows your heart rate to gradually return to the normal
range. Occasionally, the fitness professional may help you off the treadmill or
stationary bike immediately when you finish the test and have you lie down.
·
You
will be given the breathing mask that was used during your test to keep for use
with any repeat tests you may have in the future. Having your own reusable
breathing mask is an advantage of the VO2 P.A.S. technology.
·
You
will be provided with a written report that explains your results in an easy to
understand manner.