James Pang HS342 H1 02/07/13 Burgess Lab #1: Metabolic Calculations Introduction: Metabolic calculations involve the use

of regression equations that have been derived from lab data that relate measures of work rate and their metabolic equivalents. These equations are particularly useful in lab settings where it would be unpractical to directly measure VO2 levels. Generally speaking, these equations are utilized most often in labs where standard ergonometric devices are available but a spriometer is not. Metabolic calculations can also be useful for some non-ergometer modalities (specifically indoor and outdoor walking or running). Although regression equations can be extremely useful, they are still limited by a few parameters. First of all, the equations used are appropriate only for steady state sub maximal exercise. If measurements arent made during a steady state of exercise the VO2 will be overestimated. Secondly, these equations tend to be heavily influenced by environmental factors that result in changes in mechanical efficiency, such as gait abnormalities, wind, and snow or sand. Finally, predicted VO2s using these equations also show a higher degree of variance between subjects which may impact the precision of a data set. Calculations: 1a) 1.73 L/min 1b) i) 8.65 kcal/min ii) 734.4 kgm/min iii) 120 Watts 1c) 69.9 m/min 2a) 104.2 kcal 2b) 419.7 kgm/min or 68.6 Watts 3a) 244.7 mL/kg/min 3b) 652.5 kcal/mile 4a) 24.67 ml/kg/min 4b) 93.40 Watts 4c) 22.8 steps/min 5a) 37.7 Watts 5b) 8.19 kcal/min

5c) 2% grade 6a) 1542.5 ml/min 6b) 87.7 m/min 6c) 231.4 kcal 7a) 45% of VO2 Max 7b) 16.6 steps/min 7c) 34.7 minutes 8a) 3.65 kcal/min 8b) 9.79 kcal/min 8c) 12.3 kcal/min Discussion Questions: 1) Metabolic equations are useful in that they allow us to make accurate estimates on VO2 in situations where VO2 cannot be directly measured or predicted. These equations are derived from laboratory data relating the mechanical measures of work and their metabolic equivalents. Metabolic equations are especially useful when a spirometer is not available and is only appropriate for submaximal and steady state exercise. 2) Most environmental factors such as heat or cold do not effect the accuracy of metabolic equations. However environmental conditions that alter mechanical efficiency, such as wind and running on snow,or sand, will have an impact on the accuracy of equations. 3) Steady state exercise involves exercising at a level where energy supply is meeting energy demand. In other words, oxygen supply is meeting the demand for oxygen during exercise. In comparison to untrained individuals, a trained individual will be able to maintain a steady state of exercise at the same intensity as that of the untrained person but with a lower energy demand which is reflected by a lower VO2 or heart rate.