Aerobic Capacity – VO₂Max Testing What is a VO₂max Test?

VO₂Max, or maximal oxygen consumption, is the gold standard for measuring aerobic fitness and cardiovascular health. It represents the maximum amount of oxygen your body can utilize during intense exercise, providing insight into endurance capacity and overall fitness levels. VO₂Max is measured using indirect calorimetry, a method that analyzes the gases you exhale while exercising. The higher your VO₂Max, the more efficiently your body can use oxygen to generate energy, allowing you to sustain physical activity for longer periods. A higher VO₂Max is also associated with better longevity and overall health, making it a beneficial tool for anyone looking to improve their well-being.

This test is beneficial for a wide range of individuals, from elite athletes seeking to optimize performance to fitness enthusiasts who want to track progress. Endurance athletes, such as runners and cyclists, rely on VO₂Max data to fine-tune their training and improve efficiency. However, it’s not only for high-level competitors—anyone interested in improving their cardiovascular health can benefit from this test. VO₂Max assessments can also be useful if you are recovering from illness or looking to establish a baseline for future fitness goals.

Your VO₂Max Test Experience

• You may choose to complete this test on a treadmill or a stationary bike. We can also perform the test on a personal bike connected to a Wahoo Kickr if compatible.
• The test will begin at a low intensity, and every 1-2 minutes, the intensity will increase in speed or grade until exhaustion. You will be asked to wear a mouthpiece and nose clip, which will measure and analyze expired gases as you exercise. Heart rate will be continuously monitored using a Polar chest strap.
• Each test protocol will be tailored to match your current fitness level, ensuring the data generated is accurate.
• Appointments last 60 minutes with 10-25 minutes of exercise.
• Your raw VO₂Max data will be available immediately after your test, and a summary of your test results will be sent to you within 10 days of your appointment.

Data Generated

• VO₂Max
• Maximal heart rate
• Respiratory exchange ratio (RER)
  • RER is a number that shows whether your body is burning more fat or more carbs during exercise.

• The New York Times: “What is VO₂Max?”
• Lindsay Warner, Harvard Health Publishing: “VO2max: What is it and how can you improve it?”