Adapted Chester Step Test Can Have Maximal Response Characteristics for the Assessment of Exercise Capacity in Young Women

Abstract

Chester step test (CST) estimates the exercise capacity through a submaximal response, which can limit its application in the prescription of exercise. This study aimed to assess whether an adaptation of the CST (with a progressive profile) can have maximal response characteristics in young women and compare it to the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT). Another aim was to determine its within-day test–retest reliability. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 25 women (20.3 ± 1.5 years) who performed the field tests twice on two different days (48 h apart). The maximal effort attainment was assessed by the heart rate (HR), perception of exertion (Borg scale), and blood lactate concentration. For the performance variables, Pearson’s correlation and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1) were used. In the best test, mean values of maximal response were observed in the adapted CST (94.0 ± 6.5% of age-predicted HRmax, 11.3 ± 4.5 mmol/dl of blood lactate, and 18.4 ± 1.5 of Borg rating). The correlations between the adapted CST and the ISWT were weak to moderate (0.38 ≤ r ≤ 0.55; p < 0.05). Fair to good reliability was found for the adapted CST (ICC2,1 = 0.48–0.61). The adapted CST showed mean values of maximal response, weak to moderate association with the ISWT, and low within-day test–retest reliability in young women.

Validity of submaximal aerobic capacity and strength tests in firefighters

“…A common method of testing cardiorespiratory fitness in UK firefighters is the submaximal Chester Step test (CST), which offers good test–retest reliability in estimating maximal aerobic capacity ( ) [ 7 , 8 ] and is considered an accessible method of assessing within occupational settings such as firefighting [ 9 , 10 ]. However, estimates from the CST may significantly differ from values obtained via direct maximal treadmill testing [ 7 ] and there remains limited evidence regarding the validity of the CST in firefighting specifically.…”

Reference Equation of a New Incremental Step Test to Assess Exercise Capacity in the Portuguese Adult Population

“…Because of this, step tests are a suitable alternative which, in addition to the advantages mentioned above, require little equipment (an easily transportable platform), and the stepping skill requires little practice [1]. Additionally, step tests with an incremental and externally paced profile can provide a maximal cardiorespiratory response [13].…”