NAUTILUS
®
FIT TEST PROGRAM
25
rate of the subject to at least 115 beats/min. It
is important to remember that two consecutive
heart rate measurements must be obtained
above 115 beats/min to predict VO2 max. The test
typically lasts from 6 to 15 minutes. The test will
terminate if the heart rate does not continue to
rise from state to stage.
Each work rate is performed for 3 minutes, with
heart rates recorded during the fi nal 4 seconds of the
second and third minutes of each stage. If the heart
rates are within 5 beats/min, then the heart rate
during the last minute is plotted against the work
rate, and the program advances to the next 3-minute
stage. The program continues for two to four stages
until two steady state heart rates above 115 beats/
minute are obtained in two consecutive stages.
The line generated from the plotted points is then
extended to the age-predicted maximal heart rate.
A corresponding maximal work rate and VO2 max
can then be calculated.
At the end of the 3rd minute of each stage, if the
heart rates at the end of the 2nd and 3rd minute are
not within 5 beats/min of each other, then that work
rate is maintained for an additional minute. At the
end of the 4th minute, the heart rate is compared
to the heart rate at the end of the 3rd minute. If the
heart rates are within 5 beats/min, then the heart
rate during the 4th minute is plotted against the work
rate. If the heart rate at the end of the 3rd and 4th
minute are not within 5 beats/min, then the work rate
is maintained for one more additional minute. If the
heart rate at the end of the 4th and 5th minutes are
within 5 beats/min, then the heart rate at the end of
the 5th minute is plotted against the work rate. If the
heart rate at the end of the 4th and 5th minutes are
not within 5 beats/min, then the test failed.
Once two consecutive heart rate measurements
are obtained above 115 beats/min range, then
the test ends successfully and the results are
displayed. Estimated maximum aerobic capacity
is shown in ml/kg/min and METs. Next, the results
are compared to normative values for others of the
same age range and gender.
To use the Fitness Test Program:
1. Put the chest strap on. Remember to wet the
underneath of the chest strap, over the electrodes.
2. Select the PROGRAM Key to enter the program
selection menu. Use the UP/DOWN LEVEL Keys to
select the FIT TEST Program.
3. Enter your weight using the UP/DOWN LEVEL
Keys and press the ENTER Key to confi rm.
4. Enter your age using the UP and DOWN Keys and
press ENTER to confi rm.
5. The console will display ENTER GENDER MALE
/ FEMALE. Select your gender using the UP and
DOWN Keys and press the ENTER key to confi rm.
6. The console will display BEGIN FIT TEST. Follow
the onscreen prompts.
7. The test will be terminated early, and the
messages “TEST TERMINATED / TRY AGAIN
LATER” will be displayed if:
• You stop exercising at any point during the test.
• The heart rate response to each work level is the
same or less than the previous work level.
TEST YOUR FITNESS LEVEL