Feature

VO2 Max Estimation

Estimation of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), the gold-standard measure of cardiorespiratory fitness and a powerful predictor of longevity. VO2max represents the maximum rate at which the body can consume oxygen during intense exercise, measured in mL/kg/min. Laboratory VO2max testing requires graded exercise to exhaustion with respiratory gas analysis; wearables estimate VO2max using submaximal data—typically heart rate response during walking or running at known speeds (via GPS). The relationship between heart rate, pace, and oxygen consumption allows algorithmic estimation without maximal exertion. Population averages range from 35-40 mL/kg/min for sedentary adults to 70+ for elite endurance athletes. VO2max declines approximately 10% per decade after age 30 but responds well to training at any age. Higher VO2max is associated with reduced cardiovascular mortality, improved metabolic health, and better cognitive function. Wearable estimates typically correlate 0.8-0.9 with laboratory values but absolute accuracy varies. Tracking VO2max trends over months reveals fitness trajectory more reliably than individual readings.

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