Sports Tests

VO2 max (also maximal oxygen consumption, maximal oxygen uptake or aerobic capacity)

Overview

Why test it?

To measure physical fitness

How to test?

Accurately measuring VO2 max involves a physical effort sufficient in duration and intensity to fully tax the aerobic energy system. In general clinical and athletic testing, this usually involves a graded exercise test (either on a treadmill or on a cycle ergometer) in which exercise intensity is progressively increased while measuring ventilation and oxygen and carbon dioxide concentration of the inhaled and exhaled air. VO2 max is reached when oxygen consumption remains at steady state despite an increase in workload.

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Jonathan Robinson's Comment

The VO2 max is one of the most important parameters that people would want to have assessed. The results have implications for the necessary training required to increase performance. Endurance athletes will tend to get the best score although it is also very relevant to team sports. The test measures maximal energy consumption and we use it to assess aerobic fitness or endurance fitness. We record all of the oxygen used during the test and some of the blood parameters. We get a range of data, the VO2 max itself plus blood lactate levels which indicates how hard the athlete is having to work. The test is often conducted on a running machine but can be tested on a rowing machine or suitable apparatus for different sports.

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