National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which individual is expected to have the largest maximum oxygen consumption?

1. A 23-year-old male (weight: 240 pounds; height: 72 inches)

2. A 25-year-old female (weight: 160 pounds; height: 66 inches)

3. A 53-year-old male (weight: 210 pounds; height: 69 inches)

4. A 47-year-old female (weight: 130 pounds; height: 62 inches)

The correct answer is: A 23-year-old male (weight: 240 pounds; height: 72 inches)

Maximum oxygen consumption, also known as VO2 max, is an indicator of an individual's cardiovascular fitness and aerobic endurance. Several factors affect VO2 max, including age, gender, body composition, and physical condition. In this case, the 23-year-old male is expected to have the largest maximum oxygen consumption. Generally, younger individuals tend to have a higher VO2 max compared to older individuals due to the effects of aging on aerobic capacity. Additionally, males typically possess a higher VO2 max than females, largely due to differences in body composition and muscle mass. Muscle mass contributes positively to aerobic capacity, as muscle tissues require oxygen to generate energy during exercise. The 240-pound weight of the 23-year-old male likely indicates a substantial amount of muscle mass, which can further enhance his aerobic capacity. Larger body size can be an advantage in terms of oxygen consumption if the excess mass is attributed to lean muscle rather than excess fat. This can result in higher absolute VO2 max values, even if weight adjustments may affect relative measures. In comparison, the other individuals listed have factors that might limit their VO2 max values. The other males are older and likely have decreased aerobic conditioning and capacity due to aging, while the females tend to have lower VO2