VO2Max: the link to weight

I have written in the past about VO2Max. In case you missed it, here is a quick summary.

VO2Max is the maximum amount of oxygen that your body can uptake when performing an activity. Running, for example.

So what does weight have to do with VO2Max?

VO2Max is expressed as millilitre per kilogram per minute ml/kg/min.

So imagine that your weight moved from eighty kilograms to sixty. Your VO2Max would improve as the same amount of oxygen is now available to a smaller mass.

But there is a catch.

This is a relative measure. Your absolute measure did not change, just your weight. What you really need is to actually improve your VO2Max.

That can only come from training. Training your heart, lung, and building muscle. I don’t mean big bulky muscles, just firm toned muscles that power you through the day.

If you are wondering why it matters, let me revisit what I said before. The amount of oxygen you can bring to bear on an activity matters no matter if you are athletic or not.

Think climbing stairs or even getting up from a chair. You will be shocked how many people can pant from the simple act of sitting and standing.

That is VO2Max at play. So no matter who you are, it matters.

If you want to improve your score, here are some potential ways.

Perform aerobic exercises. Walking, swimming, cycling at low speeds for long distances will do. Switch the exercises when ever you can. Walking up a hill is a very different skill from walking on a flat surface.

Cycling and swimming activate very different muscles groups. The more the better, the more varied the better.

Age does not matter. What ever your age, it is not too late to start.

Reach out to me on twitter @rbawri Instagram @riteshbawriofficial and YouTube at www.youtube.com/breatheagain