Purpose: Submaximal aerobic exercise testing is utilized with a variety of populations to assess fitness level and predict maximal oxygen uptake (VO2peak) when a maximal test is not possible or preferable.

What is the advantage of performing a submaximal fitness test rather than an maximal fitness test?

Submaximal tests are less accurate, but are safer and faster than a maximal test. Submaximal tests use heart rate response to submaximal power output to estimate VO2max ; thus, any factor that alters heart rate response reduces the accuracy of the test.

When would you use a submaximal exercise test?

Submaximal tests are used because maximal tests can be dangerous in individuals who are not considered normal healthy subjects and for elite athletes maximal tests would disrupt training load balance.