Time Away from Mandatory Physical Training and its Effect on Maximal VO2 in ROTC Cadets

Abstract

During the school year, cadets in ROTC programs are required to participate in mandatory physical training. However, during the summer months, training is not required. Changes can occur in VO2max with both training and detraining. The purpose of this study was two-fold: (1) to determine if VO2max changes over the summer in cadets returning to campus and (2) to determine if there is a difference in VO2max between returning cadets and new cadets. Participants completed a graded exercise treadmill test to determine their VO2max in the spring of 2010 and in the fall of 2010. The results show a significant decrease in the returning cadets’ VO2max from time point 1 (spring) to time point 2 (fall). No difference was noted between returning cadets’ and new cadets’ VO2max. In conclusion, by providing the cadets with a program to be completed during extended breaks, a decrease in VO2max could possibly be avoided.