Dr. David Nieman (Director)
Melanie Austin, MS (Lab Manager)
828-262-3142
niemandc@appstate.edu
http://hles.appstate.edu/human-performance-lab

Part of the College of Health Sciences, the Human Performance Lab (HPL) focuses on cardio respiratory assessments such as VO2 max and resting metabolic rate, body composition measurements using DEXA, underwater weighing, and bioelectrical impedance. VO2 max determinations can be made on either a treadmill or cycle ergometer, via stationary or portable metabolic analysis systems. 

High-quality, low-cost fitness testing is available through the HPL.  The tests are available to members of the community as well as university faculty, staff and students.

 The research-level quality tests offered, and their costs, are:

·        EKG-treadmill test with measurement of oxygen consumption (VO2max) (the best test for heart and lung fitness). Note: This test is for apparently healthy individuals only. Cost: community, $75; Appalachian faculty/staff, $50; students, $25

·        Resting metabolic rate (a measurement of how many calories are expended per day when resting, with a comparison to expected levels to determine if the metabolism is high or low). Cost: community, $25; Appalachian faculty/staff, $20; students, $10

·        Underwater or skinfold body tests (a determination of body fat and ideal body weight). Cost: community, $15; Appalachian faculty/staff, $10; students, $8

·        DEXA (another gold standard for assessing body fat levels and ideal body weight) Cost: community, $25; Appalachian faculty/staff, $20; students, $15

·        All tests combined for a complete fitness assessment. Cost: community, $100; Appalachian faculty/staff, $70, students, $35 (with DEXA add $10)

All tests will be conducted using sophisticated, research-grade equipment, and trained technicians. Fitness testing is performed Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3-6 p.m. Contact Melanie Austin at 828-262-3142 to schedule an appointment.

Send an email to asuresearch@appstate.edu to receive more information about ongoing studies.  The HPL also conducts research through the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis, NC.  For more information on about ASU/NCRC, please visit the ASU/NCRC Website.