The authors developed and validated a “tailored” version of the Åstrand-Rhyming step test (tA-R) and a new equation for VO_2max prediction in older adults (OA). Sixty subjects (age 68 ± 4 yr, 30 male, 30 female) performed their tA-R step test (5-min, 30-cm step, tailored stepping rate) and an incremental cycling test to exhaustion. VO_2max was (a) predicted using the standard A-R equation (_predictedVO_2max), (b) predicted based on the authors’ new multiple linear equation (_equationVO_2max), and (c) directly measured by incremental cycling test (_directVO_2max). Agreement among values of VO_2max was evaluated by Bland-Altman analysis. The _predictedVO_2max was not significantly different from the _directVO_2max, yet with relatively large imprecision. The _equationVO_2max allowed more precise as well as accurate predictions of VO_2max compared with standard A-R prediction. The “tailored” version of the Åstrand-Rhyming step test and the new prediction equation appear suitable for a rapid (5-min), safe (submaximal), accurate, and precise VO2max prediction in healthy OA.