The PWC-Test (Physical Working Capacity) classifies the power of you body, especially of the cardiovascular system. The change of physiological values (pulse and blood pressure) in a distinct load test is analysed and the power which exceeds a certain presetted value is measured. You get the PWC value for your power diagnosis as relation between power [in Watt] and body weight [in kg]:
PWC-Value [Watt/kg] = (Power in Watt) /(Body weight in kg)
The PWC value is just an approximation for power and does not reach the accuracy of sophisticated measurement systems of serious and high-performance sport. The bicycle ergometry (Ergometry, see [Trappe et al. 2000]) was established for the demands of fitness section, since you get meaningful results with low effort and easy handling. Therefore the Loading Schemata after WHO or BAL is widely spread. The step frequency should be between 60 and 80 revolutions per minute.
Let a low PWC value motivate you to improve your general performance by due exercising. An expert consulting for individual training is absolutely necessary. After about 8 to 10 weeks you should repeat the test for trainings control.
In general you can execute the bicycle ergometer test till maximal or submaximal exhaustion. To avoid such an extreme load for the body there are three different kinds of tests useful. The enhancement of the load will be stopped, when one of the following pulse frequencies (test mode) will be exceeded in one load level:
You take the pulse frequency at the end of the last loading level. The classification of the performance depends on the gender. The optimal value for women is from 2,5 (PWC 130) to 3,4 (PWC 170) and for men from 2,9 (PWC 130) to 4,0 (PWC 170). The ranges used in Overview of classification ranges used in the GMON are based on [Stemper 1988].
Loading Schemata after WHO or BAL
Overview of classification ranges used in the GMON