Can be predicted the maximal heart rate for deep water running training from a cycle ergometry in women with fibromyalgia syndrome?

Aim. The purpose of this study was to compare a specific graded exercise test using deep water running (DWR) with a cycle ergometry (CE) test on land to develop an equation to estimate maximal heart rate for training in DWR in Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) Methods. Cross-sectional study with 21 subjects with FMS. Maximal and submaximal heart rates (HR), blood lactate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) in the aquatic and land-based graded exercise tests were investigated. Results. The results suggest that both tests were undertaken at maximal intensity. DWR maximal HR was lower (-13%) than in the CE test. For both tests the maximal RPE was greater than 18 and maximum blood lactate was 8 mmol/L, with no significant difference between the CE and DWR test. The lineal regression for estimate maximal heart rate for training in DWR in persons with FMS was: Maximal HR DWR=196.3+(age*-0.560)+(maximal HR CE*-0.357) Conclusion. A graded DWR test can be used as an alternative for the assessment of aerobic fitness and for estimate physical work intensity in aquatic rehabilitation program for subjects with FMS. The use of the DWR test and the equation may avoid overestimation of work intensity in aquatic rehabilitation program for subjects with FMS.