The Chester Step Test is one of fitnessASSIST’s key brands. Since 1999, fitnessASSIST has been involved in the development and application of this test. As a sub maximal test of aerobic fitness, it has been subject to a variety of validation studies and can now be described as an easy to use, accurate and reliable test of aerobic fitness.
The Chester Step Test has been adopted by corporate organisations around the world as a method of assessment for aerobic fitness. Approved by the Home Office for use in the assessment of fire fighter’s fitness, it is widely used by fire brigades, airport fire services, police and ambulance services. The Chester Step Test is also used in cardiac rehabilitation departments to assess and set goals in the development of patient’s aerobic fitness. Leisure and health clubs use the Chester Step Test as an integral part of their health programs.
The Chester Step Test is a sub maximal test to determine aerobic fitness and cardio-respiratory health. The protocol of stepping to the metronome bleep enables the subject to achieve a predetermined heart rate value (80% of their max). Once at 80% stroke volume ceases to be a factor in cardiac output leaving only heart rate, which increases in a linear fashion. The point at which the predicted heart rate reaches its predicted maximum heart rate is the estimated VO2 max reading. The test is not geared towards athletic types wanting an absolute value of aerobic fitness. It gives all members of the general public a guide into their level health and fitness. The stepping platforms have been designed specifically for use with the Chester Step Test. It is ideal where space is limited and aerobic assessment is required, such as occupational health testing and in a health club environment.