ü Either foot can lead the step sequence. ü Permit a short practice to allow clients to familiarize themselves with the cadence.
• The goal of the test is to step up and down on a 12-inch riser for three minutes (Figure 8-14).
• Explain to the client that heart rate will be measured through palpation (or auscultation) for one full minute upon completion of the test, counting the number of beats during that first minute of recovery. It is important for the client to sit down immediately following the test and remain quiet to allow the trainer to accurately assess heart rate.
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Figure 8-14 Three-minute step test—stepping cycle
Test protocol and administration: • On the trainer’s cue, the client begins stepping and the stopwatch is started. • The trainer can coach the initial steps to make sure the client is keeping pace with the metronome. Cue the time remaining to allow the client to stay on task.
• At the three-minute mark, the test is stopped and the client immediately sits down. Count the client’s HR for one entire minute. ü The test score is based on the fact that the immediate post-exercise HR will decrease throughout the minute cycle.
ü It is important that the HR check begin within five seconds of test completion. (Placing a stethoscope to the client’s chest enhances the tester’s ability to count the actual heartbeats. In some cases, the client may be uncomfortable with this procedure, in which case a radial pulse check will also suffice.)
• The client’s one-minute post-exercise HR is recorded on the testing form. • Encourage a three- to five-minute cool-down followed by stretching of the lower extremities. The client may experience post-exercise dizziness or other signs of distress if no cool-down is performed (i.e., blood pooling in the extremities and accelerated HR).
• Classify the client’s score using Table 8-16 or 8-17 and record the values on the testing form.
• Continue to observe the client, as negative symptoms can arise post-exercise.
