Functional Capacity Testing
Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at 11:16AM 
FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY TESTING
The above Functional Capacity Test Data Sheet has been used by me with good success since 1985. While a traditional Stress Test is used to determine the presence or absence of heart disease, a functional capacity treadmill test can be used to determine an appropriate starting point for a prescriptive exercise program. The test start point is less than 2 METS and the incremental progression allows you to note subtle differences in exercise tolerance as the patient progresses through changes in either speed or intensity - for each of the 20 test stages.
This test classifies functional capacity according to the Weber Classification scale (Weber KT, Janicki, JS, Exercise testing for evaluation of chronic cardiac failure - American Journal of Cardiology 55 (Suppl A) 122A-131A, 1985
As a patient progresses throught the various test stages their functional level increases. The lowest level is classified as "E" while the highest is "A." Patients functioning at Class "D" or "E" - at greatest risk for chronic cardiac failure are referred to a monitored rehabilitation program. Patients at Class "A" while not highly conditioned athletes, are at least risk for chronic cardiac failure while exercising. The data sheet is color coordinated to highlight the various functional levels.
Over the years I have found that assigning a letter grade "A - E" to describe functional capacity works well when conversing with patients or clinicians. While I am certain that some of you will not agree with my test protocol or methodology, it has proven to be very successful for me. Your comments are appreciated. You may download a copy of the Functional Capacity Test Sheet at our FREE DOWNLOAD section.
Barry M. Stein, DPE, Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Reader Comments (4)
I like the simplicity of this test protocol. I'll try it out at my weight management clinic and let you know how it works. Thank you.
I've been using your test protocol in my weight management program since November and like it a lot. Thanks for sharing it.
Based on what Dr. Wright's experience has been, I will try this protocol in my weight management program.
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