Question

A male student performed the Harvard Step Test for 4 minutes. His pulse was recorded during the recovery periods as 58 beats in the first half-minute, 50 beats in the second, and 42 beats in the third. Using the Harvard Step Test formula, calculate his Fitness Index and state whether his score falls in the Excellent, Good, or Average category.

Hint:

A higher Fitness Index indicates better cardiovascular fitness. Regular exercise and proper physical activity improve this index.

Answer 1

Step 1: Harvard Step Test Formula.
The Fitness Index is calculated using the following formula: \[ \text{Fitness Index} = \frac{100 \times \text{duration of the step test (in seconds)}}{\text{pulse rate (in beats per minute)} \times \text{recovery time (in seconds)}} \] Step 2: Calculate the Average Pulse Rate.
The pulse rates during the recovery periods were:
- First half-minute: 58 beats
- Second half-minute: 50 beats
- Third half-minute: 42 beats
The average pulse rate is: \[ \text{Average Pulse Rate} = \frac{58 + 50 + 42}{3} = 50 \, \text{beats per minute} \] Step 3: Apply the Formula.
Now, substitute the given values into the formula: - Duration of the test = 240 seconds (4 minutes) - Average pulse rate = 50 beats per minute - Recovery time = 3 minutes = 180 seconds \[ \text{Fitness Index} = \frac{100 \times 240}{50 \times 180} = \frac{24000}{9000} = 2.67 \] Step 4: Evaluate the Fitness Index.
Using the Fitness Index categories: - Excellent: 85 or above
- Good: 65-84
- Average: Below 65
The student's Fitness Index of 2.67 falls in the Average category.