Comparing several equations that predict peak VO₂ using the 20-m multistage-shuttle run-test in 8–10-year-old children

This study compared the validity of reported equations as predictors of peak VO₂ in 8–10-year-old children. Participants (90 boys and girls aged 8–10 years) performed the multistage-shuttle-run-test (MSRT) and peak VO₂ was measured in field using a portable gas analyser. The equations that estimated peak VO₂ from the MSRT performance were chosen according to the age range of this study. As follows, the FITNESSGRAM reports and the equations of Leger et al. (Can J Appl Sport Sci 5: 77–84, 1988), Barnett et al. (Pediatr Exerc Sci 5:42–50, 1993), Matsuzaka et al. (Pediatr Exerc Sci 16:113–125, 2004) and Fernhall et al. (Am J Ment Retard 102:602–612, 1998) were used to estimate the peak VO₂ and compared with the directly measured value. The equation of Leger et al. (Can J Appl Sport Sci 5: 77–84, 1988) provided a mean difference (d) of 4.7 ml kg⁻¹ min⁻¹ and a 1.0 slope. The equation of Matsuzaka et al. (Pediatr Exerc Sci 16:113–125, 2004)(a) using maximal speed (MS) showed a higher d (5.4) than the remaining using total laps d (4.2). The equation of Barnett et al. (Pediatr Exerc Sci 5:42–50, 1993)(a) that includes triceps skinfold and MS showed the highest d (6.1) but the smallest range (24.1) and slope (0.6). Data from the FITNESSGRAM had the smallest d (1.8 ml kg⁻¹ min⁻¹), but also had the highest range between limits of agreement (28.6 ml kg⁻¹ min⁻¹) and a 1.2 slope. The lowest slope (0.4) and range (22.2 ml kg⁻¹ min⁻¹) were observed using the equation of Fernhall et al. (Am J Ment Retard 102:602–612, 1998). Log transformation of the data revealed that the equations of Matsuzaka et al. (Pediatr Exerc Sci 16:113–125, 2004)(a) (1.1*/÷1.25) and Fernhall et al. (Am J Ment Retard 102:602–612, 1998) (1.17*/÷1.25) showed the closest agreement among all, but they still yield unsatisfactory accuracy.