| This study investigated the prediction of maximal oxygen consumption in collegiate soccer athletes. The participants included 16 Division 1 soccer athletes with ages ranging from 18-22 years. The mean and standard deviations for their physical characteristics were as follows: height: 1.7+/-0.07 m, weight: 76.07+/-6.2 kg, and BMI: 24.07+/-1.6 kg.m-2. The athletes completed three tests which included a maximal treadmill test, a Pacer test, and a soccer-specific Hoff test. During the maximal treadmill test, maximal oxygen consumption values were measured using gas analysis (M= 57.5+/-4.7 ml·kg-1·min-1). Total distance covered and end soccer heart rate values were used to predict VO2max from the soccer specific Hoff test (M=3016 +/- 44m and 167.5 +/-13.5 bpm respectively). The variable used to predict VO2max from the Pacer test was the maximum attainable speed (MAS) achieved (M=14.00+/-0.6 km·.hr-1). Using Multiple linear regression analysis, no significant predictor equations were found (p>0.05) from either the soccer specific Hoff test, (R=.331, SEE=4.8 ml·kg-1·min -1) or the Pacer test (R=.466, SEE=4.34 ml·kg-1·min -1). Based on results from this study, the soccer specific Hoff test is not a valid test for estimating a soccer player's maximal oxygen consumption value. However, this test maybe useful for coaches interested in testing their players' technical ability. |
