Operational Definitions
1. Maximal Oxygen onsumption O2max) - the maximum rate at which
the body uses oxygen. This is used as a measure of physical fitness.
2. Peak Oxygen Consumption ( 2peak) - highest a ue of O2 obtained
from an exercise test.
3. Fat Oxidation (FO) – The breakdown of Free Fatty Acids for energy.
4. Peak Fat Oxidation (Fatmax, Fatox, PFO) – exercise intensity where
maximal fat oxidation is observed.
5. Respiratory Exchange Ratio (RER) – the ratio of CO2 produced to O2
consumed and indicates which fuel is being used for energy:
Oxidation of one molecule of Carbohydrate =1
Oxidation of one molecule of fatty acid = .71
6. Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) - a quantitative scale that indicates
the intensity of an exercise.
7. Body Mass Index (BMI) - weight and height in kg/m2
Overweight - ≥ 5 - 29.9 kg/m2
Obese - ≥ 30 g m2 (CDC, 2012)