Maximal Oxygen Consumption (VO₂ max)
What is VO₂ max?
VO₂ max, also known as maximal oxygen uptake, is the highest rate at which your body can consume and utilize oxygen during intense exercise. It's essentially your body's aerobic ceiling - the maximum amount of oxygen your cardiovascular system can deliver and your muscles can use.
VO₂ max is measured in milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute (ml/kg/min)
Components of VO₂ max
- Fick Equation: VO2 Max= (CO Max x Max Artero-venous difference)
Factors Affecting VO₂ max
1. Genetic Factors
- Inherited muscle fiber type distribution
- Heart size and lung capacity
- Blood vessel density
2. Training Status
- Endurance training can improve VO₂ max by 15-20%
- Untrained individuals typically show greater improvements
Regular endurance training is the most effective way to improve your VO₂ max within your genetic potential
3. Age
- Peaks around age 20
- Decreases approximately 1% per year after age 25
4. Gender
- Women typically have VO₂ max values about 15-20% lower than men
- Due to differences in:
- Hemoglobin concentration
- Body composition
- Heart size
Typical VO₂ max Values
General Population
- Sedentary males: 35-40 ml/kg/min
