VO2 Max Testing
The VO2 Master is the world’s first wearable, affordable and easy-to-use VO2 monitor.
In simple Terms:
What is a VO2 Max?
The reasons why we value an accurate VO2 max and why it is respected by leading performance coaches and scientists the world over are numerous. When taking the complexity out of the number, in simple terms;
Your VO2 Max is your body’s highest capacity to use oxygen as its primary fuel source. The higher your number the higher your capacity.
Adding some of the science back in, the higher the ability of the body to use oxygen for energy (aerobic metabolism) the fitter your cardiovascular system is. This is primarily due to the fact that the functions of aerobic metabolism yield significantly more energy than your body’s other energy pathways - meaning more power, longer durations and a higher achievable work rate. Your VO2 max is measured in ml/kg/min, meaning it is a very individualised score based on how much oxygen you can utilise, per kilogram of bodyweight per minute throughout the test.
Book your VO2 Max
Want to know your Resting metabolic rate (RMR test), Lactate thresholds (Blood Lactate test) or a combination? Pick the right service for your goals below or give us a call and one of our practitioners can talk you through the best option for you.
Is a VO2 Max test worth it?
Yes! We think so, but it all depends on your training and desire to improve.
Completing a VO2 max test will supply you with a personalised report providing the key information to apply directly, and accurately, to your training.
This test outlines specific thresholds in your performance, identifies the onset of lactate acid accumulation, important changes in heart rate, ventilation and at what speed or wattage these milestones take place.
A little more than “220-your age”
If you’re serious about your training for endurance events or in improving your longevity, a VO2 max test takes the guess work out of generalised zone training and off-the-shelf training plans.
VO2 MASTER ASSOCIATED PRO ATHLETES
LIONEL SANDERS - Professional Triathlete - Ironman World Champion
SEBASTIAN CORDOVEZ - Sports & Fitness Consultant
MARIA "FLACA" GUERRERO - Professional Triathlete
OLAV ALEKSANDER BU - Professional Coach & Scientist
GUSTAV IDEN - Professional Triathlete - Ironman World Champion
KRISTIAN BLUMMENFELT - Professional Traithlete - Olympic and Ironman World Champion
What’s involved in the test?
VO2 Max test:
Either on a treadmill or a bike, the stand-alone VO2 max test is an incremental exercise test that takes under 30mins to complete. During this test, you begin at a relatively easy intensity after a short warm up period, then begin to work through set stages of increasing difficulty until you reach exhaustion and cannot continue.
VO2 and Blood Lactate Test:
Much like the VO2 max test, this test works through incremental stages of increasing difficulty. In contrast to the stand-alone VO2 max test, this protocol has longer stages to allow for accurate measurements of your blood lactate information at a specific work rate and the accurate calculation of your lactate thresholds. This test therefore takes 40-60mins to complete and involves blood sampling.
Resting Metabolic Rate Test:
This test takes 20mins to complete and requires you to sit or lay down for its entirety. Whilst testing, you are aiming to be a relaxed as possible so the test can measure only the energy required to fuel your basic organ function.
VO2 Max, Lactate and RMR Testing Information:
Completing a full battery of cardiovascular and metabolic testing will provide you with a multitude of informative data that you can utilise as the cornerstone of your training;
Find your VO2 max
Heart rate and personalised training zones
Ventilation thresholds (VT1 and VT2)
Lactic thresholds (LT1 and LT2)
Specific speed/pace or wattage/power zones
Resting metabolic rate (RMR)
How to prepare for my test:
You will be completing a maximal exercise test;
Come fuelled, hydrated and appropriately rested
Recommend no big meals or caffeine within 2-3 hours prior to your test. Food and caffeine can elevate your lactate scores and heart rate
If training for an event, we recommend simulating race/training nutrition
Wear clothing you would train in - if training for an event feel free to wear your race day gear or something similar
When completing a treadmill/running test;
Running attire - including shoes
Towel and water bottle
When completing a bike/cycling test;
Cycling attire
Towel and water bottle
You’re welcome to bring your own bike set-up. If you have a stationary trainer, such as a wahoo kicker and specific cycling set-up, we recommend you use these for your test - Please contact us prior to your test to ensure sufficient time to set-up and ensure all components are available to optimise the test.
Not your first test with us?
For the most reliable results, follow the same preparation each time. This includes meals, timing and format of the test completed perviously.
After my test?
Once you’ve completed your VO2 Max test, you will have personalised training zones and know your thresholds. With the comprehensive report provided you can adjust your training accordingly to train more efficiently or target weakness revealed in the test.
The transportation of fuel and waste is dictated by our Red Blood Cells. These cells live for ~120 days and therefore, if your training is accurate and effective, this is when we should see an improvement in your metrics and a need to reassess your training zones.
Meaning testing every 3-4 months is an ideal timeframe if you're looking to maximise your training.