Indirect determination of maximal oxygen uptake in volleyball players

This study investigates the validity of a sport-specific field test aimed at indirectly estimating maximal oxygen uptake capacity (VO₂max) in female volleyball players. VO₂max is recognized as one of the fundamental physiological indicators determining an athlete's endurance performance and is typically measured under laboratory conditions using direct gas analysis. However, such measurements require high costs, technical expertise, and specialized equipment; therefore, practical, economical, and field-appropriate alternatives are needed. In this context, specific tests developed for sports such as volleyball, which involve high-intensity, intermittent, and multi-directional movement patterns, can be an important assessment tool for both coaches and scientists. In this study, shuttle run counts obtained using a specialized field test incorporating volleyball movement dynamics were compared with VO₂max values measured in a laboratory setting. The study included 22 young female volleyball players who engaged in regular training; participants underwent both a direct VO₂max test and a field protocol supported by three-axis accelerometers. Laboratory data were obtained with high accuracy using a respiratory gas analyzer and heart rate monitor, while field test data included athlete workload and heart rate responses recorded from accelerometers. Statistical analyses revealed a significant and positive correlation between the maximum shuttle run count achieved in the field test and VO₂max (R² = 0.405, p < 0.01). This finding indicates that the field test can be used to estimate VO₂max; the regression model created (VO₂max = 28.067 + 0.370 × Sit-Up Count) suggests that the aerobic capacity of young volleyball players can be assessed quickly and inexpensively. Additionally, the observation of higher heart rates even at lower running speeds in the field test indicates that the test has a high metabolic difficulty level and resembles real match conditions. In conclusion, this thesis demonstrates that sport-specific field tests can provide valid and applicable tools not only for performance screening but also for training planning and monitoring aerobic capacity development. The development of field tests that are highly applicable, safe, and scientifically based, especially for children and young athletes, makes sport-specific performance monitoring more accessible. Keywords: Aerobic capacity in Volleyball, VO₂maks, Volleyball Field Tests