Development Of A Prediction Equation For Vo2 Max Using The 12-minute Cooper Test With A Smartwatch

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity of the 12-minute Cooper test using a smartwatch and to develop accurate and practical predictive models for VO2max in Korean adults. METHODS: A total of 88 adults (47 males, 41 females) participated in this study. VO2max was measured using a maximal graded exercise treadmill test. The 12-minute Cooper test was conducted using a smartwatch, which collected data on average heart rate, peak heart rate, and running distance as predictor variables. Sex, height, and weight were also included as predictor variables. Multiple regression analysis was performed to develop the VO2max prediction equation using the Cooper test with a smartwatch. The accuracy of the developed predictive models was evaluated using R2 and the standard error of estimate (SEE) against the criterion-measured VO2max. The developed prediction model was compared to existing traditional estimation methods. RESULTS: The following equation was developed (R2 = 0.861; SEE = 2.935): VO2max = 30.425 + 4.907 (sex; male = 1, female = 0) - 0.090 (height) - 0.121 (weight) - 0.031 (mean HR) + 0.037 (maximal HR) + 0.014 (distance). The intra-class correlation coefficient between the measured VO2max and the VO2max predicted using a smartwatch was 0.961 (p < 0.001), while the intra-class correlation coefficient for the VO2max predicted by the traditional estimation method was 0.940 (p < 0.001). The explanatory power between the measured VO2max and the predicted VO2max values was 86.1% (p < 0.001) and 83.2% (p < 0.001), respectively, with SEE values of 2.848 and 3.125 mL/kg/min. CONCLUSION: The Cooper test prediction model using smartwatch measurement variables demonstrated higher accuracy in predicting VO2max compared to the traditional prediction model in Korean adults. Consequently, the equation formulated in this study is suggested for more accurate estimation of cardiopulmonary fitness in Korean adults. Supported by: This study was supported by Samsung Electronics. We extend our gratitude to Samsung Electronics and all participants for their involvement in this study.