2.2. Cardiorespiratory Fitness
RPE
BLOOD, CORTEX
Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed via indirect calorimetry (Metamax, Cortex, Leipzig, Germany) during an individualized graded maximal-exercise test using a cycle ergometer (Ergoline, Germany). The aim of this procedure was to determine the cardiorespiratory exercise intensity at which the telehealth session was delivered. Ventilation, oxygen, and carbon dioxide concentrations were measured during the test via a metabolic cart (MetaMax, Cortex, Leipzig, Germany). A 3 min warm-up was initiated to familiarize the participants to the test protocol (unloaded cycling at 50 to 60 revolutions per minute [RPM]). The maximal-exercise test was initiated using a workload that was harder than the warm-up stage (load individualized at 25–50 W and at 50–60 RPM). Thereafter, the workload was progressively increased every minute by 25 W until the participant could no longer continue. The test was approximately 10–15 min in duration. Blood pressure, heart rate (HR), and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were monitored throughout the test to ensure the safety of participants.