VO2 max, or maximal oxygen uptake, is the highest rate at which oxygen can be taken up, transported, and utilized by the body during intense exercise. It is widely regarded as the gold standard measure of cardiorespiratory fitness and reflects the efficiency of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems in delivering and utilizing oxygen (Wisløff et al., 2001).

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Importance of VO2 Max

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1. Cardiovascular Endurance:

   • A higher VO2 max indicates better aerobic capacity, allowing individuals to sustain higher levels of physical activity.

   • It directly correlates with cardiac output and muscular oxygen utilization, critical for endurance performance (Rao et al., 2023).

2. Predictor of Longevity:

   • VO2 max is a strong, independent predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Higher levels are associated with reduced risks of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

   • Regular physical activity that improves VO2 max significantly extends healthspan and quality of life (Strasser & Burtscher, 2018).

3. Adaptability and Health:

   • VO2 max improves with aerobic training, enhancing oxygen delivery and utilization efficiency. This adaptability contributes to better endothelial function, reduced inflammation, and lower cardiovascular risk (Buscemi et al., 2013).