Gender differences in the aerobic fitness levels of young African-American adults

This study examines gender differences in the aerobic fitness levels of young African-American adults. Two hundred twelve African-American college freshmen (79 men, 133 women) completed the Houston Non-Exercise Test-Body Mass Index Model (HNET-BMI) questionnaire, a questionnaire designed to estimate maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max, mL kg(-1) min(-1)) in adults. Using a three-point scoring system (below average, average, and above average), 100% of the men and 80% of the women were classified as having average or above average levels of VO2max. Statistical analysis revealed that more women than men had average or below average levels of aerobic fitness (chi(2) = 54.5; P=.0001). The results of this study suggest that a larger percentage of African-American women have lower levels of aerobic fitness compared with African-American men.