Center for Performance Assessment and Wellness at South (CenPAWS)

 

 

DEXA Scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry): The DEXA scan is a low-dose X-ray test that measures your body composition – including body fat, lean muscle mass, and bone density. You will lie flat on a table while a scanning arm passes over your body; the scan typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes and is painless. Possible Risks: DEXA involves a very small exposure to radiation (much lower than a standard chest X-ray, comparable to everyday background radiation). It is considered very safe for most people but is not recommended if you are pregnant.

 

 

BOD POD Body Composition Test: The BOD POD uses air displacement technology to measure your body fat and lean mass. Purpose: Like the DEXA, it determines your body composition, which can help evaluate health risks and track fitness progress. 

Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) Test: The RMR test measures how many calories your body burns at rest, which helps determine your daily energy expenditure. Procedure: You will lie down in a relaxed position, breathing into a mouthpiece or under a clear hood that covers your head. The test typically lasts about 10–20 minutes. It is important that you remain as still and relaxed as possible (but stay awake) so that an accurate measurement can be taken. A technician will be present to supervise and ensure your comfort. 

VO₂ Max Test (Maximal Aerobic Capacity Test): The VO₂ Max test measures your body’s maximum ability to uptake and use oxygen during intense exercise – essentially, it assesses your aerobic fitness level. Procedure: You will perform graded exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike while wearing a mask that collects your breath. We will start at a light intensity and gradually increase the difficulty (speed, incline, or resistance) every few minutes. The test includes a short warm-up and then continues until you reach exhaustion. It usually lasts around 10 to 20 minutes. You will be encouraged to give a maximal effort, meaning the goal is to continue until you feel you absolutely cannot continue due to fatigue. During the test, we may also monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, or other vital signs for safety. 

 

 

Strength and Power Tests: This category includes a set of tests designed to assess your muscular strength and explosive power. Purpose: To evaluate how strong your muscles are and how quickly you can generate force at a fixed speed. These results can help in identifying muscle imbalances and side-to-side comparisons for an injured limb against a healthy limb. This can be used to determine if an athlete is safely ready to return to sport following ACL surgery.