The Norwegian Method Podcast Olav - VO2Max vs Efficiency
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Sep 25, 2025 Olaf Alexander Boo, a performance developer and elite triathlon coach, dives into the fascinating world of VO2max and training efficiency. He explains the trade-offs between VO2max and efficiency, detailing how heart size and O2 pulse impact metabolic tuning. The discussion touches on the nuances of efficiency, economy, and fractional utilization in training. Olav also highlights the importance of individualized training and metabolic profiling, along with innovative measurement tools for optimizing athletic performance.
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Training Trade-Offs Are Inevitable
- Training time is limited, so increasing VO2max often requires trading off efficiency or other capacities.
- Prioritize the metabolic qualities that match your event rather than maximizing everything.
Efficiency Versus Utilization Defined
- Efficiency is converting metabolic input (oxygen/substrates) into forward velocity with minimal loss.
- Utilization is which energy systems you rely on, and it’s distinct from efficiency.
Big Engine Costs Energy And Heat
- Prioritizing short-event power recruits higher-force muscle fibres that are less metabolically efficient.
- Building a bigger aerobic engine (heart) increases energetic and thermal cost at submaximal speeds.