what is vo2 max

VO2 max refers to the maximum amount of oxygen an individual can utilize during intense or maximal exercise. It is measured in milliliters of oxygen used in one minute per kilogram of body weight (mL/kg/min). VO2 max is an indicator of aerobic endurance and cardiovascular fitness.

The calculation of VO2 max involves two factors: the cardiac output and the arteriovenous oxygen difference (A-VO2 Difference). Cardiac output is the product of heart rate and stroke volume (the amount of blood pumped by the heart per beat), and the A-VO2 Difference is the difference in oxygen content between the arteries and the veins, which shows how much oxygen is taken up by the muscles.

VO2 max can be estimated with field tests like the 12-minute Cooper test, where the distance covered in 12 minutes is recorded, or with a 1-mile walk test looking at the time taken and heart rate.

VO2 max is also a key factor in determining the fitness level of elderly individuals, potentially influencing their independence. A VO2 max below 18 is associated with difficulty living independently.

All these insights are sourced from discussions featuring Andy Galpin on the Huberman Lab 1 2.