+ What is the benefit of VO2 Max testing?

The VO2 max test is done to determine your aerobic capacity. For active individuals and athletes, VO2 max assessment is vital for training and performance.

+ What will happen prior to the start of the test?

Prior to the test you will undergo an EKG to ensure that you can safely perform exercise testing. The EKG is safe, painless, and a quick test that measures the electrical activity of your heart. You will then be hooked up to a metabolic cart that measures the amount of oxygen that you breathe in and the amount of carbon dioxide that your body produces through your breathing. Prior to starting the test, you will complete a short warm up.

+ How is the test done in your New York location?

In the New York location, the test will be done on a cycle ergometer, which is similar to a stationary bicycle. The test can also be performed on a treadmill.

+ What factors can influence my VO2max?

There are many factors that can influence VO2max, e.g. heredity, training, age, gender, and body composition. Generally, VO2max declines with age (about 2% per year after age 30) and males typically have a greater oxygen consumption value than females.

+ What can I expect the test to look like?

During this test, the intensity will gradually increase and you will be required to work harder and harder until, ultimately, you are working as hard as you can work. This should take somewhere between 10 and 20 minutes. Once you reach the point at which you cannot work any harder, the test will be complete.

+ What safety measures are taken during the test?

The accuracy of your results can also be affected by certain medications, medical conditions, acute infections and, for females, pregnancy, breastfeeding and menstruation. You should let the testing staff know prior to the test if any of these apply, including the use of non-prescription medications. You should immediately report any unusual feelings that are of concern to the test staff during the test.

+ How long does the test last?

You will be scheduled for an hour visit, which will include preparation, set-up, warm up and cool down. The test itself generally takes around 10-20 minutes.

+ How do I prepare?

The VO2 Max test requires you fast 12 hours prior to the test, without food or caloric beverages. You should not perform moderate or vigorous intensity exercise the day prior to the assessment.

+ What should I wear?

You should wear clothing in which you feel comfortable exercising.

+ Do I need a physician referral to complete the test?

While most locations don’t, some locations require a doctor’s referral to ensure they believe it is okay for your health to complete the test. You will be informed upon scheduling what your selected location requires.

+ Can I use my VO2 max values to inform my every day training?

VO2 max values cannot be used in every day training, but follow-up VO2 tests can be used as a measure of progress. However, since heart rate, speed and/or power is typically measured during a VO2max test, various heart rate, speed and/or power levels can be garnered from testing and then associated to appropriate training zones, which are then applied to everyday training. Other information such as VO2 economy (oxygen consumption values at a given heart rate or power output) can also be extracted from the data, compared to subsequent tests and against performance norms.

+ How long until I have my results?

You will receive online access to your results within one business day.