Maximal oxygen consumption and composite indices of femoral neck strength in a group of young women

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max; mL/mn/kg) and composite indices of femoral neck strength in a group of young women. 41 young women whose ages ranged from 18 to 35 years participated in the present study. Femoral neck bone mineral density was measured by DXA. Composite indices of femoral neck strength (CSI, BSI and ISI) were calculated. VO2 max (mL/mn/kg) of the participants was measured using a Cosmed Fitmate pro device (version 2.20) while exercising on a bicycle ergometer (Siemens-Elema RE 820; Rodby Elektronik AB, Enhorna, Sweden). VO2 max (mL/mn/kg) was positively correlated to CSI (r = 0.52; p < 0.001) and ISI (r = 0.45; p < 0.01). The positive associations between VO2 max (mL/mn/kg) and these two indices (CSI and ISI) remained significant after controlling for body mass index using multiple linear regression models.