VO2 Max Test Benefits
Your cardiovascular system is key to unlocking peak performance—and a longer, healthier life.
A VO2 Max test measures the maximum oxygen your body uses during exercise, providing insights to enhance endurance, sustain heart health, and stay strong for the long run.
Optimize your training regimen
With insights into your aerobic capacity, VO2 Max results empower you to tailor your training for optimal oxygen efficiency and endurance.
Take control of your longevity
A higher VO2 Max indicates better cardiovascular fitness and lower risk of chronic disease. Track this vital data to take control of your future.
Efficiently track your cardiovascular health
Monitor your cardiovascular efficiency over time to help prevent health issues and support your longevity goals.
The VO2 Max Experience
When it comes to assessing your cardiovascular health, efficiency is everything.
Our VO2 Max test takes just 10-20 minutes and provides you with fast, actionable insights to boost endurance and strengthen heart health for the long run.
Prep
You’ll receive preparation guidelines from our team before your VO₂ Max test. Please fast (including caffeine) for 4 hours beforehand, and avoid intense exercise, steroids, and cold medications for 12–24 hours prior. Be sure to wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring running sneakers.
TEst
Our team will gradually adjust your run speed and incline while your heart rate monitor and specialized mask track your oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production until you reach your limit.
Review
Right after your test, our clinical team will review your results with you and answer any questions you may have. You’ll leave with your full report in hand—no waiting or follow-up required.
Refine
Schedule a follow-up test 3-4 months later to assess changes to your VO2 Max rate and refine your training plan.
Patient Testimonials
VO2 Max FAQs
Click the drop down for details on each question.
How should I prepare for my VO2 Max test?
Fast (including caffeine products) for 4 hours, and avoid intense exercise, steroids, and cold medications for 12-24 hours. Be sure to bring comfortable athletic clothing and running sneakers.
What is a ‘good’ VO2 Max score?
Your VO2 Max is based on age, gender, fitness level, and altitude.
An optimal range for men ages
30-39 is 41-44.9
An optimal range for women ages
30-39 is 31.5-35.6
Who shouldn’t take a VO2 Max test?
Anyone with the following conditions or health concerns should not take a VO2 Max Test:
– Underlying heart disease/high risk of cardiovascular events
– Recent myocardial infarction
– Severe aortic stenosis
How can I be sure my VO2 Max results are accurate?
Our team recalibrates our VO2 Max equipment before every test. Additionally, our technician helps you adjust your VO2 mask and heart monitor to ensure accurate placement.
Will losing weight improve my VO2 Max rate?
Losing weight, especially reducing visceral fat (the fat around your organs), can lead to noticeable improvements in VO2 Max. A study showed that obese postmenopausal women who lost weight through a combination of a calorie deficit and walking saw a 10% increase in VO2 Max and a 20% reduction in visceral fat. This shows that weight loss, particularly reducing visceral fat, can boost heart and lung fitness.
How can I improve my VO2 Max?
More than other forms of exercise, HIIT (high interval training) has been shown to enhance VO2 Max rates. Studies have demonstrated that HIIT protocols are specifically more effective than sprinting and moderate-intensity continuous training.
How often should I test my VO2 Max?
Testing frequency depends on your fitness goals. If you are training for a specific event, research indicates that VO2 Max rates can change as quickly as six weeks after introducing a new training program.
How long does a VO2 Max test take?
A typical VO2 Max test takes between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the individual’s fitness level and the protocol used. The test involves progressively increasing exercise intensity while you breathe into a mask that measures oxygen consumption, so the duration can vary slightly based on your endurance.
What should I wear to a VO2 Max test?
Wear comfortable, athletic clothing and supportive shoes suitable for exercise, as the test involves physical exertion. Avoid tight clothing that might restrict movement.
How does age affect VO2 Max?
VO2 Max naturally declines with age due to changes in cardiovascular and respiratory function, muscle mass, and overall fitness levels. However, staying active and engaging in regular aerobic exercise can help slow this decline, and VO2 Max can still be improved at any age with proper training and lifestyle adjustments.
We also recommend
Your health journey doesn’t stop here — it’s all connected. That’s why we recommend pairing this service with the Comprehensive Diagnostics Package.
Comprehensive Diagnostics Package
Build a strong foundation for your long-term health with a package that covers your cardiovascular, metabolic and musculoskeletal health, as well as your aging biomarkers.
Includes
-
Learn moreLearn more
Which path is best for you?
Book a free discovery call with a non-clinical team member who will help you get started.