If you track your carbs, time your laps and rarely forget your FitBit at home, you already understand the importance of collecting health data. But a test once utilized only in labs for elite athletes is now bringing more powerful fitness data to anyone, whether you’re a badminton buff or serial marathoner. The benefits of VO2 max testing reach far outside the realm of exercise—you can expect valuable insight into your risk for disease, energy level and even nutrition requirements.
Here are a few reasons why you should test yours:
Identify Disease Risk
A lower VO2 max is directly associated with an increased risk of multiple chronic illnesses, like Type 2 Diabetes. By taking a VO2 max test, you hold another powerful indicator of your health and physical fitness in the palm of your hand. Use the information and work diligently to keep your heart and lungs strong, and you can decrease your risk of contracting chronic illnesses.
Track Your Progress Objectively
Watching that number on the scale? Looking at your mile pace over time? Shooting to lift more than you did last week? You’re tracking some factors that contribute to your health, but not your overall cardiovascular fitness level. VO2 max is the most precise, scientific way to measure your current fitness level. After implementing changes, you can test again and track your degree of change. And you can compare your stats to those of other people your age.
Exercise Efficiently and Avoid Overtraining
You’ll learn about your custom training zones based on your VO2 max. If you’re looking to improve your speed and fitness, there’s a precise zone for just that. A professional can help break down your data to recommend the amount of time spent in each zone, preventing injury and overtraining. Check out some examples of VO2 max workout formats in this Active.com article. The goal? To spend the right amount of time training and the right amount recovering, in order see real, data-driven results in your performance.
With the information VO2 max testing returns, you gain a serious advantage and control over your health and wellness.