What does the term "VO2 max" refer to?

The term "VO2 max" refers specifically to the maximum rate of oxygen consumption measured during incremental exercise. It is a key indicator of an individual's aerobic capacity and cardiovascular fitness. As exercise intensity increases, the demand for oxygen by the muscles also increases. VO2 max quantifies the highest level of oxygen that the body can utilize during intense exercising, which reflects how efficiently the heart, lungs, and muscles work together to supply and use oxygen.

This measurement is important for athletes and those seeking to improve their fitness, as a higher VO2 max generally correlates with better endurance performance. It can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, training, and altitude. Evaluating VO2 max can help in designing effective training programs and tracking performance improvements over time.