VO2max
The maximum rate at which the body can use oxygen during exercise, measured in ml O2 / kg bodyweight / minute.
Definition
VO2max is the single best predictor of all-cause mortality in healthy adults. A 1-MET improvement (~3.5 ml/kg/min) reduces mortality risk ~12-15%. Estimated via the Cooper 12-minute run, the Rockport walk test, or lab indirect calorimetry. Elite endurance athletes: 70-85 (men) / 60-75 (women). Sedentary adults: 30-40 / 25-35.
Formula
Cooper: VO2max = (35.97 × miles_in_12min) − 11.29
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Related body terms
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