s4/e11 Everything You Need to Know About VO2max with Coach Elisabeth
Mar 29, 2024
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Coach Elisabeth, an expert in endurance performance, delves into the intricacies of VO2max measurement and its relevance. She discusses the challenges of assessing VO2max accurately, compares its importance to other performance predictors, and shares insights on VO2max workouts. The podcast explores the impact of altitude, training, and physiological factors on optimizing oxygen transport for enhanced performance.
VO2Max, or maximal oxygen uptake, is a key factor in determining endurance running performance. While commonly associated with athletic success, particularly in elite runners, its direct correlation to performance may be less significant than traditionally believed. The podcast explores the limitations of solely focusing on VO2Max as an indicator of athletic ability and highlights other crucial factors like lactate threshold that play a more critical role in predicting and enhancing performance.
Lab Testing and Accuracy of VO2Max Measurement
For an accurate assessment of VO2Max, rigorous lab testing is required, providing precise values that wearable fitness devices may not offer. Lab-based VO2Max testing aligns with the grading methodology where participants exercise to exhaustion, unlike time-bound tests, impacting the reliability of results. While VO2Max values could be compelling, practical implications suggest relying on additional metrics like lactate threshold for practical training guidance.
Training Focus and Performance Enhancement Beyond VO2Max
Contrary to popular belief, an exclusive emphasis on improving VO2Max through specialized training may not translate directly to enhanced athletic performance. The podcast emphasizes that while VO2Max is trainable, overall performance gains result from a holistic training approach that considers lactate threshold and other physiological factors. Understanding the intricacies of how oxygen utilization impacts endurance performance offers a more comprehensive strategy for achieving optimal running outcomes.
Oxygen Transport and Altitude Impact
Getting oxygen from the air into your lungs is crucial for oxygen transport to your muscles, impacting endurance. At sea level, there is higher oxygen influx, but at higher altitudes, the atmospheric pressure decreases, affecting oxygen intake. Oxygen transport, from lungs to muscle tissue, is a major performance limiter, with about 70-75% of VO2 max limitation attributed to it. Factors like blood volume, cardiac output, and hemoglobin concentration play vital roles in oxygen delivery.
VO2 Max Workouts and Intensity Management
VO2 max workouts, although high intensity, don't require extensive duration due to the strain they impose on the body. Intervals of 1-3 minutes at VO2 max levels are common, typically performed uphill for intensity without added mechanical stress. Volume and intensity in VO2 max workouts are balanced, emphasizing short bursts of high effort. Starters are advised to include strides or hill sprints to prepare for higher intensity training, progressing to specific VO2 max workouts gradually.
Let's dive into VO2max! In this episode, Coach Elisabeth unravels the intricacies of VO2Max, its measurement, and its significance in endurance performance. How much do you ACTUALLY need to focus on VO2max?
What VO2max measures, and the variations in ranges observed across different populations, spanning from beginners to elite athletes.
The challenges associated with accurately assessing VO2Max, particularly through fitness wearables
A comparison between VO2Max tests and other assessments (like lactate threshold) as a predictor of performance
What VO2max workouts actually look like
And more!
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