The mention of sports medicine testing, such as a VO2Max test, can conjure up the mental image of an elite athlete pushing themselves to their absolute limit in order to identify how they can fine-tune their training and achieve their peak performance. But are these tests only useful to elite athletes, or can they be beneficial to anyone regardless of their level of activity?
What is it and what does it involve?
For those who are unsure, your VO2Max relates to the amount of oxygen your body is able to transport and use during exercise. The value is directly related to your physical fitness, and can be shown as a total value in litres of oxygen per minute (l/min) or as a relative rate in millilitres of oxygen per kilogram of bodyweight per minute (ml/kg/min).
A VO2 test usually consists of 10-15 minutes of exercise, progressively increasing in intensity during which oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations within inhaled and exhaled air are measured and recorded.
There are 2 testing options available:
- VO2 Max Test – this test does not have a pre-determined end point. It will continue until you feel you cannot! This will give the most accurate readings for VO2Max.
- VO2 SubMax Test – this test will automatically terminate when your heart rate reaches a pre-determined level (usually set at around 80-90% Max). As the test will be terminated at a lower intensity, the data will be used to gain a predicted VO2Max reading.
As the test protocol itself is tailored to your current level of fitness, you do not need to be super-fit to complete a VO2 Test (a common misconception).
Why would I want know my VO2Max and how would I benefit from it?
As already mentioned, your VO2Max value will relate directly to your current cardiovascular fitness giving you a benchmark for your training. The results can then be analysed to outline specific training zones, to set you on the way to achieving your chosen fitness goals.
Whether you are looking to lose a little weight or improve your lactate threshold prior to an event, identifying your training zones accurately will ensure that you are training at the correct intensities at the correct times.
At the Drummond Clinic we are able to carry out the test while running, cycling or rowing, depending on your chosen sport. In addition, we are also able to provide blood lactate testing in order to accurately identify your anaerobic threshold (point at which your body transitions from aerobic to anaerobic exercise).
For more information, please feel free to contact one of the Drummond Clinic Team on 01628 639 532.