Pacing strategy during the final stage of a self-paced \(\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }\) (SPV) test does not affect maximal oxygen uptake

Purpose Self-paced \(\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }\) tests (SPVs) have shown to produce maximal oxygen consumption values similar to those from traditional protocols. These tests involve perceptually regulated stages in which subjects are asked to maintain rating of perceived exertion values of 11, 13, 15, 17 and 20 for 2 min each. What is not clear is how the last stage should be paced. The purpose of this study was to compare two different pacing strategies during the final stage.