Chapter 2.1, Problem 9E

Harvard Step Test The Harvard Step Test was developed⁴ in 1943 as physical fitness test, and modifications of it remain in use today. The candidate steps up and down on a bench 20 inches high 30 times per minute for 5 minutes. The pulse is counted three separate times for 30 seconds each: at 1 minute, 2 minutes, and 3 minutes after the exercise is completed. If P is the sum of the three pulse counts, then the physical efficiency index E is calculated using

$E=\frac{15,000}{P}.$

The following table shows how to interpret the results of the test.

Efficiency Index	Interpretation
Below 55	Poor condition
55 to 64	Low average
65 to 79	High average
80 to 89	Good
90 & above	Excellent

a. Does the physical efficiency index increase or decrease with increasing values of P? Explain in practical terms what this means.

b. Express using functional notation the physical efficiency index of someone whose total pulse count is 200, and then calculate that value.

c. What is the physical condition of someone whose total pulse cont is 200?

d. What pulse counts will result in an excellent rating?