V02 Max Testing

VO2 max is the gold standard endurance exercise assessment as it measures your ability to use oxygen in aerobic energy production.

VO2max describes the highest rate at which energy is provided via aerobic metabolism. This rate is dependent on two main factors:

1.   the capacity of the pulmonary, cardiac, vascular and cellular mechanisms to transport oxygen to the aerobic machinery within the muscles, and

2.   the capacity to utilise oxygen within the working muscles.

The VO2 max test is a maximal exertion graded exercise test. As discussed during your pre-test consultation, this will occur either on a bike or treadmill. 

Prior to undertaking the test your anthropometric measures will be taken.

In order to perform a VO2 max test, you will be required to wear a face mask which will measure samples of expired air. If you have an aversion to masks or have difficulty breathing, please advise prior to the test.

You will begin with a warmup. From here, you will commence the graded threshold testing. This will see you increasing intensity (Watts/speed) at set increments. These increments will be determined by your reported current fitness levels, gender and testing modality.

You will continue inline with your set increases until you reach a point of volitional exhaustion and are unable to either maintain the speed/ watts. The test may also be ceased for reasons such as nausea, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath or as directed by the tester. Once you reach a point of volitional exhaustion, final check will be undertaken prior to completion of a cooldown.

Once completed, you will get an opportunity to review your data and receive recommendations on training phases.