VO2 Max
WHAT IS A VO2 MAX TEST?
VO2 MAX is the abbreviation for maximal oxygen volume consumption per minute. Maximal oxygen consumption can be determined by collecting and analyzing expired air during progressive interval exercise. Analysis of the difference between inspired and expired O2 content and the volume of ventilated air allows calculation of the oxygen consumption of an athlete as exercise intensity increases. For endurance athletes, the most important information gained from the test is the maximal endurance capacity, but it can also be used to distinguish pulmonary from cardiovascular limitation in exercise and evaluate patients with heart disease.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE TEST:
At the time of your test, a technician will sit down with you to review your medical history, family history, social history, and exercise history. A standard ECG is an option to add on to the test; for athletes over the age of 45, this test is required in order to rule out the presence of ischemic heart disease or risk of cardiac problems.
During the test, the athlete wears a mask fitted with valves and gas exchange is measured with expired air being routed to a gas analyzer. You can choose to perform the test on a bike, treadmill, or rowing machine. This is a maximal test, meaning that the intervals increase in intensity until exhaustion. During the test, the technicians will monitor heart rate, workload, instantaneous VO2, and respiratory exchange ratio. Blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and blood lactate are optional figures that may be assessed if the athlete desires. The data collected during this test allow exercise capacity and ventilatory threshold to be determined. These values will increase the accuracy and effectiveness of training zones.