Relationship of various body composition parameters used for predicting VO2max

Results Using multiple linear regression, a model was produced where significant predictors of VO2max (p < 0.05) included estimated body fat percentage from sum of three skinfolds (p < .001) and BMI (p = .024). The generalized equation (R = .741, R2 = .549, SEE = 7.10) derived from the model to predict VO2max was: 72.32 + (-.949 × %fat from skinfolds) – (.392 × BMI). Variables excluded (p > 0.05) from the model included 6-minute walk test time, PARS, height, weight, gender, age, and percent body fat from bioelectrical impedance analysis. Conclusion It was concluded that that percent body fat and BMI are significant predictors of VO2max. Although the relationship between VO2max and the other variables examined in this study were not significant, it may have been due to the homogeneity of these parameters (e.g., age and activity levels) in the participants and the lack of the 6-minute walk test to discriminate among fitness levels in university students. However, these results demonstrate the importance of the relationship between BMI and percent body fat (estimated from skinfolds) in predicting VO2max without maximal testing. from 2008 International Society of Sports Nutrition Conference and Expo Las Vegas, NV, USA. 9–10 June 2008