Prediction of maximal oxygen uptake based on anthropometric indices in Iranian male adults

Background: Assessment of maximal oxygen consumption is important in both general community and occupational settings. Validity and reliability tests are needed to indicate the functionality of the cardiopulmonary system.

Objective: This study aimed to establish a maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) prediction model using anthropometric and demographic variables for young adults in Iran.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 64 healthy young men aged 19-29 years. Oxygen consumption was measured directly and the prediction models to estimate VO2max were determined by multiple linear regression. The accuracy of the prediction models was considered using regression coefficient (R), coefficient of determination (R2), and standard error of estimate (SEE).

Results: The average VO2max was 44.02±4.31 ml/kg/min. Significant correlations were found between the measured VO2max and the anthropometric and demographic variables (r = 0.16-0.86, P < 0.05). Three significant regression models with acceptable accuracy were developed (R2 = 0.67-0.71, SEE = 3.19-3.21).

Conclusion: The predictive models consisted of 3-5 variables as significant predictors of VO2max and had acceptable accuracy for Iranian young adults. The proposed models are a simple and valid tool that can be used to estimate the VO2max in the field and in laboratory settings.