VO2 Testing

Overview
The maximal rate at which oxygen can be taken up, distributed to working muscles, and used by the body during exercise can be defined as VO2max.  Endurance athletes such as triathletes, rowers, and cyclists have some of the highest measured VO2 values because their sports require the presence of oxygen.  VO2max is often expressed in relation to body weight (milliliters of oxygen consumed per kilogram of body weight per minute) which allows us to compare people of different size.

Testing for VO2MAX
VO2max can be measured on the treadmill or bike, but it is recommended that testing be specific to the sport you are training for.  Stages are typically 1 to 3 minutes in length and are accompanied by either an increase in speed, wattage, and/or treadmill incline.  Graded exercise testing for physical fitness is non invasive.  Individuals are asked to where a heart rate monitor for determining maximal heart rate and are asked to wear a mask that captures exhaled air to be measured.

For a VO2max test to be valid, parameters must be met. First, the maximal heart rate measured during the test must fall within +/- 10 beats of their predicted heart rate using the prediction equation 220 – age.  The second requirement is a respiratory exchange ratio (R value) of at least 1.1. The R value is the ratio between carbon dioxide produced during exercise and the amount of oxygen consumed.  At light intensities, more oxygen is consumed and fat is the primary fuel source.  As exercise intensities increase, this ratio will begin to change and carbohydrates will eventually become the primary source of energy during high intensity exercise.  Fats are the fuel source at an R value of 0.71 and carbohydrates at 1.0 while both are used equally at 0.85.  The point at which carbohydrates versus fats becomes your primary fuel source along with a corresponding heart rate can be determined during testing.

Cost:
$250 (initial test)
$100 (retests)

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Boston Performance Coaching at info@bostonperformancecoaching.com