New fitness test offers reliable way to measure wheelchair users' cardiovascular capacity
Researchers have validated a submaximal arm crank test that accurately estimates peak oxygen uptake in wheelchair users with spinal cord injuries, eliminating the need for exhausting maximal effort tests. The finding could improve rehabilitation programs, fitness tracking, and clinical monitoring for this population while reducing safety risks.
Originaltitel: Validation of the Holmlund-Grooten sub-maximal arm crank ergometer-test for estimating peak oxygen uptake in wheelchair users with Spinal Cord Injury
<p><strong>STUDY DESIGN:</strong> Cross-sectional validity study.</p><p><strong>OBJECTIVES:</strong> To determine the criterion validity, Standard Error of the Measurement (SEM) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC), of a newly developed submaximal test (Holmlund-Grooten test) for estimating the peak oxygen consumption in wheelchair users with motor-complete Spinal Cord Injury (mcSCI).</p><p><strong>SETTINGS:</strong> Outpatient rehabilitation centre in Stockholm, Sweden.</p><p><strong>METHODS:</strong> Peak and submaximal oxygen uptake (VO2) was measured using indirect calorimetry. A backward linear regression model, including heart rate, power output, and several demographic variables, was used to predict absolute VO2peak.</p><p><strong>RESULTS:</strong> In total, 63 individuals (16 females) with mcSCI were included. The final prediction model included four significant (p < 0.05) variables (sex, injury level, heart rate, power output) that were able to predict absolute VO2peak (adjusted R2 = 0.77). The Holmlund-Grooten test showed excellent criterion validity (ICC = 0.88; 95%CI 0.83-0.94), SEM = 0.05 L·min-1 and MDC = 0.13 L·min-1. No adverse events were reported. We provide an Excel file that calculates VO2peak based on the Holmlund-Grooten model for males and females and tetra- and paraplegia for clinical use.</p><p><strong>CONCLUSION:</strong> The Holmlund-Grooten test is a valid submaximal test for estimating VO₂peak in wheelchair users with SCI and can be easily implemented in clinical settings.</p>