Undergraduate Researcher
The University of Alabama
Hallie Chojnacki is an undergraduate student at The University of Alabama pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a minor in Biology and is also an MBA candidate through the STEM Path to MBA program. Her research expertise lies in exercise physiology and aerobic fitness assessment, focusing on evaluating and improving methods for estimating maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max). She critically examines the accuracy of Heart Rate Index (HRI) and graded exercise test (GXT) protocols, highlighting the impact of protocol design, such as grade versus speed based progression, on VO₂max prediction accuracy. Through her work, she contributes to optimizing fitness testing methods to better assess aerobic capacity in recreational athletes. Hallie’s combined interest in healthcare and fitness motivates her to advance research that enhances the accuracy of fitness assessments and supports cardiovascular health.