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Taking the Fitness Test
The Precor M8.2E/L Fitness Test has been designed from research conducted
at the world-renowned Cooper Institute for Aerobics Research. It must be used
in conjunction with the Precor E/L Heart Rate Monitor and provides important
information about your cardiorespiratory fitness level.
Note: You cannot take the Fitness Test without using the Precor E/L Heart
Rate Monitor.
Using the Precor E/L Heart Rate Monitor, you can take the Fitness Test to
determine your cardiorespiratory fitness and personalize a weight loss training
program to meet your needs. The Fitness Test measures maximal oxygen
uptake (VO
2
max.), the maximum amount of oxygen the body can use for
energy production during exercise. Maximal oxygen uptake is the best measure
of cardiorespiratory fitness: the higher your uptake, the greater your ability to
exercise for prolonged periods without tiring.
The Fitness Test determines heart rate response to varying levels of exercise.
It’s a simple procedure that reveals valuable information about your current
fitness level. Your results classify you in one of three fitness categories (see
Tables 1 and 2), which are based on the Cooper Institute’s eight-year study of
over 13,000 men and women.
CAUTION: Before taking the Fitness Test, you should have a complete
physical examination by your physician.
Before performing the Fitness Test, read the following guidelines.
• Consult with your physician before engaging in any vigorous exercise. Do
not perform the Fitness Test until authorized by your physician.
• You should not take the Fitness Test if you are taking any medications that
either speed up or slow down your heart rate. Since the test is based on
your heart rate response during varying levels of exercise, medications
invalidate the test.
• Do not drink caffeine or smoke cigarettes for at least three hours prior to
the test. Cigarettes and caffeine can elevate your heart rate.
• Slow down and stop the test immediately if you experience any pain or
abnormal symptoms.
• After assembling the Precor E/L Heart Rate Monitor and putting on the
chest strap (refer to the instructions found in the
Precor E/L Fitness Test
Heart Rate Option Owner’s Manual
), turn the cycle ON and position
yourself within range of the receiver for a minimum of 15 seconds. This
allows the software to acknowledge the presence of the Precor E/L Heart
Rate Monitor. Note that your heart rate will not appear until you begin the
Fitness Test program.
• While performing the Fitness Test, stay within 3 feet of the receiver. If you
move outside of the 3 foot range, the receiver might have difficulty picking
up your heart rate signal.
• Perform the Fitness Test in a well-ventilated room with an ideal
temperature around 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
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