Aerobic Tests - Harvard Step Test

This test is designed for healthy young males and females. It is a strenuous test. This test was developed at the Harvard Fatigue Laboratory during the second World War. The physiological basis of the test involves two concepts: 1. Since the test involves measuring recovery heart rate then the fitter subjects will recover at a faster rate from a standardised workrate. 2. Trained people will have a lower heart rate at a standardised workrate. The Harvard Step Test is appropriate for comparing fitness levels in the same person, that is, before and after a training program.

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