VO2 Max
Definition
VO2 max, or maximal oxygen uptake, is the highest rate at which a person can take in, transport, and use oxygen during intense exercise. It is usually expressed relative to body weight as millilitres of oxygen per kilogram of body mass per minute, and is widely used as a measure of cardiorespiratory fitness. [1] [2]
Why It Matters in Ageing Research
VO2 max matters because cardiorespiratory fitness is strongly associated with mortality risk, cardiovascular health, physical function, and resilience across adulthood. VO2 max generally declines with age, but the rate of decline varies between individuals and can be influenced by physical activity, training status, disease, and body composition. In longevity research, VO2 max is often discussed as a functional marker of physiological capacity rather than a direct molecular biomarker of ageing. [2] [3] [4] [5]
Common Confusion
- VO2 max is not the same thing as resting heart rate or step count.
- Wearable estimates of VO2 max are not the same as a laboratory measurement.
- A high VO2 max is useful, but it is not a complete measure of health or longevity on its own.
Related Reading
References
- Poole, D. C., & Jones, A. M. (2017). Measurement of the maximum oxygen uptake VO2max: VO2peak is no longer acceptable. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28153947/
- Ross, R., et al. (2016). Importance of assessing cardiorespiratory fitness in clinical practice: A case for fitness as a clinical vital sign. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27881567/
- Kodama, S., et al. (2009). Cardiorespiratory fitness as a quantitative predictor of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events in healthy men and women. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19454641/
- Fleg, J. L., et al. (2005). Accelerated longitudinal decline of aerobic capacity in healthy older adults. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15687341/
- Aspenes, S. T., et al. (2011). Peak oxygen uptake and cardiovascular risk factors in 4631 healthy women and men. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21208929/
This glossary entry is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.