Vo2 Max
A VO₂ max test is good because it gives a very accurate picture of your fitness and endurance — and it can be used for both training, health assessment, and performance optimization.
Here are the 5 most important reasons
VO₂ max viser, hvor effektivt din krop optager og bruger ilt under hård træning.
Jo højere VO₂ max → desto bedre aerob kapacitet → du kan yde mere og holde længere.
Det er det mest præcise mål for kondition, man kan få.
You can repeat the test and see the development over time.
For example, how much your fitness has improved after a training period.
It can help adjust training zones (heart rate zones and intensity).
So you train more precisely – neither too easy nor too hard.
A high VO₂ max is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and premature death.
Even small improvements in VO₂ max have a big impact on health.
(For example, an increase of 3–4 ml/kg/min can significantly reduce mortality risk.)
The test shows when you hit your anaerobic threshold (the point where the body switches from using the most oxygen to forming more lactic acid).
It helps to plan training more effectively:
Should you focus on endurance?
Or on intensity and pace?
Elite athletes use VO₂ max to fine-tune performance.
Exercisers and trainers use it to measure progress and health improvement.
Personal trainers can use it as an objective way to document clients' progress.
More info
A VO₂ max test (pronounced “VO-to max”) is a physiological test that measures your maximal oxygen uptake – that is, how much oxygen your body can maximally absorb, transport and consume during intense physical activity.
It is one of the best indicators of your fitness (aerobic capacity).
What VO₂ max means
VO₂ = Volume of oxygen (O₂)
max = Maximum
The result is measured in ml O₂ per kg body weight per minute (ml/kg/min)
The higher the number, the better your ability to perform endurance work, such as running, cycling or swimming.
Direct VO₂ max test
You run on a treadmill or cycle on an ergometer bike.
You wear a mask that measures the air you inhale and exhale (oxygen and carbon dioxide).
The load is gradually increased until you cannot continue.
The device calculates your maximum oxygen uptake.
This test is the most accurate, but requires specialized equipment and supervision by a professional.
Why VO₂ max is important
Shows your aerobic capacity and endurance
Helps plan training and intensity
Can be used to measure progress over time
Included in many training and health programs