THE EFFECTS OF HEIGHT ON PERFORMANCE ON A MARGARIA-KALAMEN STAIR STEP TEST

Anaerobic power can be measured by the Margaria-Kalamen Power test, which requires individuals to sprint up 12 stairsteps while striding three stair-steps at a time (MK3) which is challenging for shorter individuals. The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a difference in the power output during the MK3 and a modified test (MK2) between individuals shorter than 168 cm (ST) and those 168 cm or taller (TL). All participants performed a modified Wingate test lasting 5s (WG5), the MK3, and the MK2. Absolute power and relative power were significantly greater (p<.05) in TL compared to ST in each test. In both TL and ST groups for absolute power and relative power, there were significant differences (p<.05) between all three tests (MK3>MK2>WG5). There was a significant correlation between height and power during WG5, but not during the MK3 or MK2. (Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kyle Biggerstaff)