VO2max
VO2max is the maximum amount of oxygen your body can take up and use during intense exercise. It is one of the strongest measures of fitness and heart and lung health.
VO2max at a glance
For whom
Anyone who wants to stay healthy longer; fitness can be improved at any age, including later in life.
Not for whom
With heart complaints or after a long period of inactivity: build up gently and consult a doctor if needed before training intensely.
In practice
Combine easy endurance work (zone 2) with a few short interval sessions per week. Guideline: at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
Key caveats
Wearables estimate VO2max; a real exercise test is more accurate. Improvement takes weeks to months, consistency matters more than occasional hard sessions.
Known
Not yet
What popular health podcasts claimed about VO2max, checked against the research.
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