The development and testing of a new standardised maximal step test for use in cystic fibrosis

This thesis presents the development and testing of a new standardised maximal step test for people with cystic fibrosis (CF). It is recommended maximal exercise testing is carried out regularly, however, established tests have limitations. The thesis aims were: to develop an incremental maximal effort step test for the assessment of exercise capacity in people with CF across the range of age, lung function, and fitness, that is accessible, space-efficient, and complied with infection prevention guidelines; to test its feasibility by demonstrating its clinical usefulness, and capability across the lifespan to perform the test safely without floor or ceiling effects.