Validity of the Calculated VO2max from Cycling Power and VLamax

Current VO2max assessment methodologies are based on the usage of expensive ergospirometry devices. Available statistical models neglect the individual’s metabolic characteristics and show low accuracy. We investigated the validity of INSCYD software to calculate VO2max from the power output at all-out cycling efforts, body weight, fat percentage and Lamax as an alternative to ergospirometry. Eleven trained male volunteers performed six maximal cycling tests of 20s to 12 min duration. INSCYD software was used to model the metabolism during the tested efforts and to calculate VO2max. The calculated VO2max was compared with the measured VO2max with ergospirometry during the ramp test and the 3- and 6-min maximal efforts. Excellent agreement was achieved between the calculated and measured VO2max (ramp: -0.21 ml·min⁻¹·kg⁻¹, 95%CI: -2.46 to 2.0 mL·min⁻¹·kg⁻¹; 3min: -1.35 ml·min⁻¹·kg⁻¹, 95%CI: -3.04 to 0.33 mL·min⁻¹·kg⁻¹; 6min: 0.34 mL·min⁻¹·kg⁻¹, 95%CI: -1.01 to 1.68 mL·min⁻¹·kg⁻¹). A valid VO2max can be obtained from the power data of 2 maximal efforts of 3- and 6-min duration and a sprint test to calculate Lamax. This procedure can be implemented in the normal training regimen of athletes, without the need for expensive equipment. Future research should focus on testing the validity of the model on larger samples including females.