The Harvard Step test is used to measure cardiovascular fitness. It’s a simple test that requires no expensive equipment.
You will need:
- A step approximately 18 inches (45cm) high.
- A stop watch.
Instructions
- Step on to the step or bench every two seconds for 5 minutes (total of 150 steps).
- Take your pulse exactly 1 minute after finishing (take it over 15 seconds and multiply by 4). This is Pulse 1.
- Take your pulse exactly 2 minutes after finishing (take it over 15 seconds and multiply by 4). This is Pulse 2.
- Take your pulse exactly 3 minutes after finishing (take it over 15 seconds and multiply by 4). This is Pulse 3.
- Enter the numbers into the calculator below.