Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the resistance loads which elicit maximal
values of power output (PO) during performance of the Wingate test (WT). Nineteen
male subjects (mean age, 25.1 yrs; mean V̇O2 max, 3.52 l/min) performed multiple WTs in a random order at resistances ranging
from 3.23 to 6.76 joules/pedal rev/kg BW. Tests were carried out on a Monark cycle
ergometer modified to permit instantaneous application of resistance. Revolutions
were determined by a computer interfaced frequency counter. The mean resistances eliciting
the highest peak power (PP) and mean power (MP) outputs were 5.65 and 5.53 joules/pedal
rev/kg BW, respectively (average of 5.59 joules/pedal rev/kg BW). Both PP and MP were
significantly higher (15.5% and 13.0%, respectively) using a resistance load of 5.59
compared to the Wingate setting of 4.41 joules/pedal rev/kg BW. The test-retest reliability
for PP and MP ranged between 0.91 and 0.93 at both resistance loads. Body weight and
thigh volume did not significantly estimate the individual resistances eliciting maximal
POs. The data suggest that resistance be assigned according to the subjects BW but
consideration be given to increasing the resistance from that presently used in various
laboratories.
Key words
anaerobic power - Wingate test - power output
