This post was written by Rakeshkumar Subramanian, MD, PPG – Pulmonology.
VO₂ max measures the maximum amount of oxygen your body can use during intense exercise. It’s a common measurement for assessing cardiovascular health and endurance, as it reflects your aerobic fitness and shows how efficiently your heart, lungs and muscles work together. In this post, I answer common questions about this wellness metric.
Why is my VO₂ max value important to my health?
VO₂ max provides valuable insights into your cardiovascular and respiratory fitness. A higher VO₂ max indicates that your body delivers oxygen to your muscles efficiently, which is linked to better heart health, improved stamina and a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. It can also help predict physical performance and overall longevity.
How do I calculate my VO₂ max?
VO₂ max is typically measured during a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) using specialized equipment that tracks the oxygen you inhale and exhale during exercise. There are also estimation methods using fitness trackers, apps or treadmill tests that factor in your heart rate, speed and exercise duration.
What does it mean if my VO₂ max is low?
A low VO₂ max may indicate reduced cardiovascular fitness, making daily activities feel more tiring and exercise more difficult. It may also suggest cardiovascular, lung or muscular issues, deconditioning or a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. People with a low VO₂ max often experience fatigue and have poor exercise tolerance.
What are ways to increase my VO₂ max?
You can improve your VO₂ max by engaging in regular exercise. Activities like brisk walking, running, cycling, swimming and interval training strengthen your heart and lungs. Combining aerobic exercise with strength training and gradually increasing workout intensity over time can lead to significant improvements.
In what ways do you use VO₂ max when treating patients?
As a pulmonologist, I use VO₂ max to assess a patient’s fitness for surgeries like a lobectomy or pneumonectomy. It also helps monitor progress during treatment or rehabilitation programs. Tracking VO₂ max assists in tailoring physical activity recommendations and identifying any underlying health concerns.
If you have questions about your respiratory health, learn more about Pulmonology services at Parkview.
