Three Things That Affect VO2 Max

VO2 max is one of the most important indicators of aerobic fitness. In simplest form, VO2 max is the maximum volume of oxygen that you can utilize. Three of the most important factors are:

  1. Respiratory volume- how much oxygen can you take into the lungs?

  2. Cardiac output- how much oxygen rich blood can you pump out to the body and how quickly?

  3. Cellular respiration- how much of that oxygen from the blood can you utilize at the muscle?

Two of the best ways to improve your VO2 max are:

  1. High intensity interval training- think short interval lengths at VO2 max intensity with enough rest that you can repeat that intensity for several intervals

  2. Training volume at lower intensities- think longer, slower training that lasts in the hour plus range

Keep it simple, keep it consistent and you will improve!

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