Q&A for How to Measure VO2 Max

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I am 67, 67 kg, and 1.67 tall. My resting HR is 58. Could you tell me what my Vo2 should or could be?

Meredith Juncker, PhD
Scientific Researcher
Meredith Juncker is a scientific researcher based in Brookline, Massachusetts. Currently working as a Senior Patent Technology Specialist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Meredith is able to leverage her expertise in biochemistry and molecular biology. She received a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, focusing on proteins and neurodegenerative diseases. She went on to work as a Postdoctoral Associate at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo.

Meredith Juncker, PhD

Scientific Researcher

Expert Answer

Based on the first method described in this article, your VO2max should be around 39.57 mL/kg/min. 220 - 67 = 153 (HRmax); 58 = HRrest; 15 x (153/58) = 39.57. The other two tests described in this article require data from running or jogging (resting heart rate, jog/walk time, etc.)

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Question

How accurate are they in predicting vo2max? And can they be used for adolescents vo2max?

Meredith Juncker, PhD
Scientific Researcher
Meredith Juncker is a scientific researcher based in Brookline, Massachusetts. Currently working as a Senior Patent Technology Specialist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Meredith is able to leverage her expertise in biochemistry and molecular biology. She received a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, focusing on proteins and neurodegenerative diseases. She went on to work as a Postdoctoral Associate at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo.

Meredith Juncker, PhD

Scientific Researcher

Expert Answer

Accuracy may vary depending on the equation you use for your calculations. The VO2max tests can be used for adolescents, especially athletes in training. It would suggest a parent or guardian be present during the tests that require running/jogging.

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Question

I've seen some sports watches measure VO2 max. How do they do this? Do they create their own formula, or do they use a preexisting one?

Community Answer

They tend to use the Firstbeat method, which was patented in 2012. It uses segments of the GPS tracking data and/or power data from the sports watch along with HR measure to estimate VO2 max. It's been shown to be ~95% accurate compared to lab testing using inhaled/exhaled gas analysis.

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How accurate is this formula: VO2 max = 15 x (HRmax/HRrest)? Is it scientifically valid?

Community Answer

Not very accurate. Everyone's resting heart rate varies based on preexisting conditions, family history, parasympathetic nervous system activity, etc. The list goes on and on. The only true way to measure VO2 max is in a lab with direct calorimetry or another option that uses accurate respiratory monitors in conjunction with exercise.

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What is a good VO2 max to have?

Community Answer

It is dependent on age. You can find a chart online with ideal rates by age.

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