Validation of ACSM Metabolic Equations in an Anti-Gravity Environment: A Pilot Study
Michael A. Figueroa, Jason Wicke, James Manning, Patricia Escamilla, Natalie Santillo, John Wolkstein, Mike Weis

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore whether the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) metabolic formulas that were developed and are used on traditional land-based treadmills would comply with the technology used in the AlterG® anti-gravity treadmill. Data were collected on 5 males and 5 females during an incremental stress test at 100%, 90% and 80% bodyweight (BW). Measured oxygen consumption (VO2) was compared to calculated oxygen consumption using two different metabolic formulas. Significant differences were found during the last 3 stages at 100%BW, stages 2-5 at 90%BW and during all stages at 80%BW with the average measured oxygen consumption values being lower than those that were calculated. A simulated reduction in body weight would elicit training intensities below established guidelines for cardiovascular improvement and weight loss.

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