Aeromonitor ae 280s

The validity of the assessment using an upright bicycle ergometer (75XLII; Konami Sports Life Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) was examined by comparing with the simultaneous assessment using an expiration gas analyzer (Aeromonitor AE-280S; Minato Medical Science Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan). The ergometric intensity was then increased automatically to 20 W/min ramp load from 0 W. All subjects continued pedaling for 8 min. However, if the fatigue reached the limit, exercise was stopped halfway. Furthermore, the examinee pedaling rate was guided by a metronome sound to keep around 60 rpm.

Individual aerobic fitness level was assessed using a graded exercise test with a recumbent ergometer (Strength-ergo 240, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Japan). Peak oxygen uptake ( $\dot{\mathrm{V}}$ O_2peak), the gold-standard measurement of aerobic fitness, was determined by measuring oxygen uptake continuously during an incremental test to exhaustion. After warming up for 3 minutes at 30 W, the work rate increased by 20 W (females: 15 W) per minute in a constant and continuous manner to exhaustion. The pedaling rate was kept at 60 rpm. Exhaled gas was analyzed using a gas analyzer (Aeromonitor AE280S, Minato Medical Science, Japan). Heart rate (HR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded every minute. The RPE was assessed verbally on which participant are asked to rate their perceived exertion ranging from 6 (no exertion at all) to 20 (maximal exertion). $\dot{\mathrm{V}}$ O_2peak was determined when at least two of the following criteria were satisfied: (1) the respiratory exchange ratio (R) exceeded 1.05, (2) achievement of 90% of age-predicted peak HR (220–age), and (3) an RPE of 19 or 20.