All of the most widely-cited studies for the prediction of maximum exercise responses have
utilized either volunteers or referred subjects. Therefore, selection bias, with overestimation
of the reference values, is a likely consequence. In order to establish a set of predictive
equations for the gas exchange, ventilatory and cardiovascular responses to maximum ramp-
incremental cycle ergometry, this study prospectively evaluated 120 sedentary individuals
(60 males, 60 females, aged 20-80), randomly-selected from> 8,000 subjects. Regular …

We were interested by the study of NEDER et al.[1] on maximal exercise in university staff at
SaÄo Paulo, Brazil. In particular, after allowing for age and fat-free mass, the authors
reported a partial regression coefficient for maximal oxygen consumption (VоO2)(VоO2,
max) and grade of leisure-time activity in males of 0.16 L. min-1. grade-1. This was the same
as that observed in shipyard workers (7.1 mmol. min-1. grade-1)[2] and in firemen before
and after a course of physical training [3]. The parameter is a useful reference value in its …