Advancing The Bench Step Science: Recommendations For Building Rapport And Administering Community-based Cardiorespiratory Fitness Assessments

PURPOSE: Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is a well-known health indicator, yet CRF assessments are underutilized. This gap in practice may be due to translational barriers; standard maximal effort CRF assessments (gas exchange VO2MAX tests) are largely inaccessible outside of exercise laboratories due to equipment costs, space constraints, and high participant burden. The purpose of this study is to describe the community-university approach our team used to build relationships with and assess CRF among participants from diverse backgrounds. METHODS: A sample of ethnically, racially, and weight diverse young adults who were enrolled in the EAT (Eating and Activity over Time; n = 97; mean age = 27.1 ± 1.9 yrs; 65.0% female; 75.3% BIPOC; mean BMI = 28.8 ± 7.2 kg/m2) study completed submaximal exercise step tests (ST) at neighborhood-based community gyms to evaluate their CRF. Participants’ post-exercise heart rate was measured following the YMCA 3-minute or an adapted 2-minute ST. Fitness professionals from community gyms partnered with investigators and research staff, who also held fitness certifications, to engage in collaborative exercise testing education. Research staff were trained to: (1) create an inclusive environment with welcoming words and body language; (2) use clear cues and practice safe stepping protocols; (3) receive consent for physical touch (reading pulse); and (4) respond to cultural needs and sensitivity. RESULTS: Participants successfully completed the YMCA 3-minute ST (n = 95) or the adapted ST (n = 2). No adverse events were reported. After data collection was completed, the research team discussed and agreed upon key recommendations for administering field-based CRF assessments: (1) tour community sites and familiarize participants with fitness environments; (2) building trust and rapport is essential for successful tests; (3) affirming, clear instructions are needed throughout the test and during pulse measurements; and (4) if safety is compromised, offer an alternative test (2-minute ST) so that participants have the power to choose and feel competent in their skills. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates and provides practical recommendations for feasibly and successfully conducting CRF assessments in community settings, thus advancing the fitness assessment science.