Factors Affecting the Maximum Aerobic Capacity of Mine Workers in Isfahan, Iran

Measurement of the maximum aerobic capacity (VO2-max) is important in creating physiological compatibility between the job and worker. This compatibility, in addition to maintaining health and physical capacity, may cause to increase production and productivity. The purposes of this study were to estimate aerobic capacity and determine factors affecting it. Since the estimation of VO2-max ýhas not been previously performed in Iran, these data can be recorded in the National Data Bank.
In this cross-sectional study, 85 workers of an underground mine in the province of Isfahan, Iran, participated. Their demographic data were recorded, and parameters of height, weight, BMI, and heart rate were measured. VO2-max was estimated using an ergometer bicycle and Astrand nomogram. Finally, the relationships between VO2-max and the measured parameters were analyzed using t-test and regression analysis in SPSS software.
Findings: The mean aerobic capacity in workers was 4.22 ± 0.86 liters per minute. Results showed that there was no significant relationship between aerobic capacity and BMI, age, and work experience. However, t-test showed significant relationships between VO2-max and smoking (P = 0.036), and exercise (P This study showed that BMI is not an appropriate index for predicting VO2-max, and thus, physical work capacity. Results showed that regular exercise and lack of smoking has a great effect on maximum oxygen consumption.