Exercise Testing and Evaluation
Expert-defined terms from the Advanced Certificate in Exercise and Stress course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Absolute VO2 #
Absolute VO2
Absolute VO2 refers to the total amount of oxygen consumed by an individual duri… #
It is typically measured in liters per minute (L/min) and is used to evaluate an individual's aerobic capacity.
Acute Exercise #
Acute Exercise
Acute exercise refers to a single bout of physical activity or exercise #
It is a short-term form of physical activity that has immediate effects on the body, such as increased heart rate and breathing rate.
Aerobic Capacity #
Aerobic Capacity
Aerobic capacity, also known as cardiorespiratory fitness, is the ability of the… #
It is typically measured by VO2 max.
Aerobic Exercise #
Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise is a type of physical activity that requires the use of oxygen… #
Examples of aerobic exercise include running, swimming, and cycling.
Aerobic Power #
Aerobic Power
Aerobic power is the rate at which an individual can perform aerobic work #
It is often expressed as the maximum rate of oxygen consumption (VO2 max) during exercise.
Alactacid Energy System #
Alactacid Energy System
The alactacid energy system, also known as the ATP #
PC system, is an anaerobic energy system that provides energy for short-duration, high-intensity activities lasting up to 10 seconds. It primarily uses stored ATP and creatine phosphate for energy.
Anaerobic Capacity #
Anaerobic Capacity
Anaerobic capacity refers to the ability of the body to produce energy without o… #
It is typically measured by the maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD).
Anaerobic Exercise #
Anaerobic Exercise
Anaerobic exercise is a type of physical activity that does not require oxygen t… #
It involves short bursts of high-intensity exercise, such as weightlifting or sprinting.
Anaerobic Power #
Anaerobic Power
Anaerobic power is the rate at which an individual can perform anaerobic work #
It is often expressed as the maximal rate of energy production during high-intensity exercise.
Anthropometry #
Anthropometry
Anthropometry is the measurement of the size, shape, and composition of the huma… #
It includes measurements such as height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and skinfold thickness.
Arterial Blood Pressure #
Arterial Blood Pressure
Arterial blood pressure is the pressure exerted by blood against the walls of th… #
It is typically measured using a sphygmomanometer and reported as systolic and diastolic pressure.
Assessment #
Assessment
Assessment refers to the process of collecting data and information about an ind… #
It includes measurements such as heart rate, blood pressure, body composition, and aerobic capacity.
ATP #
PC System
The ATP #
PC system, also known as the alactacid energy system, is an anaerobic energy system that provides energy for short-duration, high-intensity activities lasting up to 10 seconds. It primarily uses stored ATP and creatine phosphate for energy.
Balance #
Balance
Balance is the ability to maintain stability and control of the body during phys… #
It is important for preventing falls and injuries, especially in older adults.
Baseline Measurement #
Baseline Measurement
Baseline measurement refers to the initial assessment of an individual's health… #
It provides a reference point for tracking progress and improvements over time.
Blood Pressure #
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of th… #
It is typically measured using a sphygmomanometer and reported as systolic pressure (during heartbeats) and diastolic pressure (between heartbeats).
Body Composition #
Body Composition
Body composition refers to the proportion of fat, muscle, bone, and other tissue… #
It is often measured using methods such as skinfold calipers, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).
Cardiac Output #
Cardiac Output
Cardiac output is the volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute #
It is calculated by multiplying the heart rate by the stroke volume and is an important indicator of cardiovascular fitness.
Cardiac Rehabilitation #
Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation is a structured program of exercise, education, and lifes… #
It aims to reduce the risk of future cardiac events.
Cardiorespiratory Fitness #
Cardiorespiratory Fitness
Cardiorespiratory fitness, also known as aerobic fitness, is the ability of the… #
It is typically measured by VO2 max.
Cardiovascular Disease #
Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease is a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood… #
Regular exercise can help prevent and manage cardiovascular disease.
Cardiovascular Endurance #
Cardiovascular Endurance
Cardiovascular endurance, also known as aerobic endurance, is the ability of the… #
It is an important component of physical fitness and can be improved through regular aerobic exercise.
Chronic Exercise #
Chronic Exercise
Chronic exercise refers to long #
term, regular physical activity that is performed consistently over time. It has lasting effects on the body, such as improved cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength.
Cool #
down
Cool #
down is a period of low-intensity exercise performed after a workout to help the body gradually return to its resting state. It can include stretching, walking, or gentle movement to prevent muscle soreness and stiffness.
Cross #
training
Cross #
training involves participating in a variety of different types of exercise or physical activities to improve overall fitness and prevent overuse injuries. It can include activities such as swimming, cycling, and yoga.
Diastolic Blood Pressure #
Diastolic Blood Pressure
Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at re… #
It is the lower number in a blood pressure reading and is an important indicator of cardiovascular health.
Dynamic Exercise #
Dynamic Exercise
Dynamic exercise involves continuous, rhythmic movements of large muscle groups #
It typically includes activities such as running, cycling, and swimming and helps improve cardiovascular fitness and muscle endurance.
ECG (Electrocardiogram) #
ECG (Electrocardiogram)
An ECG, or electrocardiogram, is a test that records the electrical activity of… #
It is used to diagnose heart conditions, such as arrhythmias and heart attacks, and is often performed during exercise testing.
Exercise Stress Test #
Exercise Stress Test
An exercise stress test, also known as an exercise ECG or treadmill test, is a d… #
It involves walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while heart rate and blood pressure are monitored.
Exercise Testing #
Exercise Testing
Exercise testing is the process of evaluating an individual's cardiovascular and… #
It typically involves measuring heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen consumption, and other physiological parameters during exercise.
Exercise Tolerance #
Exercise Tolerance
Exercise tolerance refers to an individual's ability to perform physical activit… #
It can be assessed using exercise testing to determine aerobic capacity and cardiovascular fitness.
Exercise Training #
Exercise Training
Exercise training involves the systematic and progressive application of physica… #
It can include aerobic exercise, strength training, flexibility exercises, and balance training.
Exertion #
Exertion
Exertion refers to the physical effort or strain required to perform an activity #
It can be measured subjectively using rating scales, such as the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE), or objectively using heart rate monitors.
Flexibility #
Flexibility
Flexibility is the ability of a joint to move through its full range of motion #
It is important for maintaining mobility, preventing injuries, and improving posture. Flexibility exercises include stretching and yoga.
Heart Rate #
Heart Rate
Heart rate is the number of times the heart beats per minute #
It is an important indicator of cardiovascular fitness and can be measured during exercise testing to assess exercise intensity and recovery.
High #
Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
High #
intensity interval training (HIIT) involves alternating between short bursts of intense exercise and periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. It is an effective way to improve cardiovascular fitness and burn calories.
Hydration #
Hydration
Hydration refers to the process of maintaining adequate fluid balance in the bod… #
Proper hydration is essential for optimal performance during exercise and recovery. It is important to drink water before, during, and after exercise.
Isometric Exercise #
Isometric Exercise
Isometric exercise involves contracting muscles without changing their length or… #
It helps improve muscle strength and endurance and can be performed using bodyweight exercises or resistance bands.
Isotonic Exercise #
Isotonic Exercise
Isotonic exercise involves moving a joint through a full range of motion against… #
It helps improve muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility and can include exercises such as bicep curls and squats.
Isokinetic Exercise #
Isokinetic Exercise
Isokinetic exercise involves moving a joint at a constant speed with the resista… #
It is often used in rehabilitation settings to improve muscle strength and endurance after injury.
Maximal Oxygen Consumption (VO2 max) #
Maximal Oxygen Consumption (VO2 max)
Maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) is the maximum amount of oxygen an individu… #
It is a measure of aerobic fitness and is typically expressed in milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute (ml/kg/min).
Muscular Endurance #
Muscular Endurance
Muscular endurance is the ability of a muscle or group of muscles to perform rep… #
It is important for activities such as running, cycling, and weightlifting and can be improved through resistance training.
Muscular Strength #
Muscular Strength
Muscular strength is the amount of force a muscle or group of muscles can genera… #
It is important for activities such as lifting, pushing, and pulling and can be improved through resistance training.
Overload Principle #
Overload Principle
The overload principle states that to improve fitness, the body must be subjecte… #
This can be achieved by increasing the intensity, duration, or frequency of exercise.
Oxygen Consumption #
Oxygen Consumption
Oxygen consumption refers to the amount of oxygen taken up and used by the body… #
It is an important measure of aerobic fitness and can be assessed using methods such as indirect calorimetry.
Physical Activity #
Physical Activity
Physical activity is any form of movement that uses energy and engages the muscl… #
It includes activities such as walking, gardening, and housework and is important for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Physical Fitness #
Physical Fitness
Physical fitness refers to the ability to perform daily tasks with vigor and wit… #
It encompasses components such as cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, flexibility, and body composition.
Posture #
Posture
Posture refers to the alignment and positioning of the body in relation to gravi… #
Good posture is important for preventing musculoskeletal injuries and maintaining proper body mechanics during exercise and daily activities.
Progression #
Progression
Progression refers to the gradual increase in the intensity, duration, or freque… #
It is an important principle of training that helps prevent plateaus and promotes continued improvements in fitness.
Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) #
Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE)
The rating of perceived exertion (RPE) is a subjective measure of how hard an in… #
It is often used to monitor exercise intensity and adjust workload accordingly.
Recovery #
Recovery
Recovery refers to the period of time following exercise when the body repairs a… #
It is important for preventing overtraining and promoting optimal performance and health.
Rehabilitation #
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is the process of restoring health and function following injury,… #
It often involves physical therapy, exercise, and other interventions to help individuals regain strength, flexibility, and mobility.
Resistance Training #
Resistance Training
Resistance training, also known as strength training or weight training, involve… #
It can be performed using free weights, resistance bands, machines, or bodyweight exercises.
Resting Heart Rate #
Resting Heart Rate
Resting heart rate is the number of times the heart beats per minute when the bo… #
It is an indicator of cardiovascular fitness and can be used to monitor changes in fitness levels over time.
Risk Factor #
Risk Factor
A risk factor is any factor or characteristic that increases the likelihood of d… #
Common risk factors for cardiovascular disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and physical inactivity.
Sedentary Behavior #
Sedentary Behavior
Sedentary behavior refers to activities that involve little to no physical movem… #
Prolonged sedentary behavior is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Skilled Movement #
Skilled Movement
Skilled movement refers to the ability to perform complex movements with precisi… #
It often requires practice, training, and feedback to improve motor skills and movement patterns.
Speed #
Speed
Speed is the rate at which an individual can perform a movement or cover a dista… #
It is an important component of fitness for activities such as sprinting, jumping, and agility drills.
Stamina #
Stamina
Stamina refers to the ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort #
It is important for activities such as endurance running, cycling, and swimming and can be improved through regular exercise and training.
Static Exercise #
Static Exercise
Static exercise involves contracting muscles without moving the joints #
It helps improve muscle strength and endurance and can be performed using isometric exercises or holding a position for a period of time.
Strength Training #
Strength Training
Strength training, also known as resistance training or weight training, involve… #
It can include exercises such as weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, and resistance bands.
Stroke Volume #
Stroke Volume
Stroke volume is the amount of blood pumped by the heart with each contraction #
It is an important determinant of cardiac output and is influenced by factors such as heart rate, contractility, and blood volume.
Systolic Blood Pressure #
Systolic Blood Pressure
Systolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and… #
It is the higher number in a blood pressure reading and is an important indicator of cardiovascular health.
Target Heart Rate #
Target Heart Rate
Target heart rate is the desired heart rate range that an individual should aim… #
It is often calculated based on age, resting heart rate, and exercise intensity.
Time Under Tension #
Time Under Tension
Time under tension refers to the amount of time a muscle is under strain during… #
It is an important factor in muscle growth and strength development and can be manipulated by varying the tempo of repetitions.
Training Load #
Training Load
Training load refers to the amount of stress placed on the body during exercise… #
It includes factors such as intensity, duration, frequency, and volume of training and is important for optimizing performance and preventing injury.
VO2 Reserve #
VO2 Reserve
VO2 reserve is the difference between an individual's VO2 max and their resting… #
It is used to prescribe exercise intensity based on a percentage of the reserve, such as 50-85% VO2 reserve for moderate to vigorous exercise.
Warm #
up
A warm #
up is a period of low-intensity exercise performed before a workout to prepare the body for more strenuous activity. It helps increase blood flow to the muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce the risk of injury.
Workload #
Workload
Workload refers to the amount of work performed during exercise, typically measu… #
It is used to quantify the intensity and volume of exercise and track progress over time.