Aerobic capacity of Indian farm women using sub-maximal exercise technique on Tread Mill

Abstract

For sustained physical activities, the aerobic capacity, i.e., maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) of a worker sets the limit for their maximum performance. Therefore to know the aerobic capacity of farm women, a study was carried out at NRCWA Bhopal Sub-centre, CIAE, Bhopal on fifteen farm women workers (nine in 25 to 35 year and six in 36 to 45 year age group) using sub maximal exercise (workload) technique on a computerized tread mill. The stature of subjects lied between the values of 5th to 95th percentile of Madhya Pradesh farm women. The mean body weights of these workers of 25 to 35 year and 36 to 45 year age groups were 49.8 + 9.3 kg and 46.0 + 7.1 kg, respectively. Corresponding mean VO2max of farm women were 33.5 + 4.86 ml kg-1 min-1 and 32.65 + 5.77 ml kg-1 min-1. At mean aerobic capacity of farm women for the age of 25 to 45 year of 33.18 ml kg-1 min-1, the heart rate levels of 120 beats per min or work pulse of 40 beats per min may be considered as optimal criteria, for the quick appraisal of the state of activity that may be continued for longer period with proper rest pauses A linear relationship between heart rate and oxygen consumption rate was also observed and regression equations have been suggested for estimating the oxygen consumption rate of farm women from their measured heart rate data for agricultural activities in the field.