
Critical Oxygen
We teach athletes and coaches how to optimize their physiology and maximize their endurance potential! By speaking to experts with backgrounds in research, coaching, nutrition, and physiological testing we bring the science of endurance sport success directly to you in an applied way!
Latest episodes

Feb 22, 2024 • 1h 12min
Is Polarized Training the Best for Endurance Performance? | #34 ft. Dr. Billy Sperlich
In this episode, Dr. Billy Sperlich and I discuss training intensity distributions and the use of wearables in endurance sports. He shares his background in exercise physiology and his interest in triathlon. Dr. Sperlich explains the challenges of defining training intensity distribution and the limitations of research in this area. He highlights the importance of individualization and regularly testing and adjusting training intensity zones. We define pyramidal training intensity distribution and the misconceptions and practical implications of polarized training.
Paper: The proportional distribution of training by elite endurance athletes at different intensities during different phases of the season - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10641476/
TAKEAWAYS
1) Choose a quantification method for training intensity and stick with it for consistent results.
2) Consider the impact of culture and mentality on sports performance, as different countries have different sporting traditions and values.
3) Use wearables to monitor training, but be aware of the limitations and choose the right technology for your training model.
4) Identify key elements in your training model and evaluate their effectiveness to make informed adjustments.Enjoying these podcasts, subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released. If you have a question or topic you want me to address, leave a comment!Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Follow Dr. Sperlich on instagram - https://www.instagram.com/billysperlich/?hl=enCheck out his latest research - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Billy-Sperlich
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
01:28 Guest Introduction
02:25 Dr. Sperlich's Background and Interest in Exercise Physiology
03:25 Transition to Triathlon
04:43 Interest in Combining Different Disciplines
06:08 Interest in Nutrition and Heat Regulation
07:34 Involvement in High Altitude and Other Specialized Fields
08:32 German Training Science Tradition and High Volume Training
09:02 Early Interest in High Intensity Interval Training
10:30 Challenges and Misconceptions of High Intensity Interval Training
11:21 Research on High Intensity Interval Training in Children
12:16 Shift in Training Philosophy and Polarized Training
13:13 Calibrating Training Intensity Distribution
14:27 Comparison of Training Intensity Distributions
15:49 Definition of Training Intensity Zones
16:49 Different Intensity Clustering in Different Sports
18:12 Challenges in Defining Training Intensity Zones
19:42 Quantifying Training Intensity Distribution
20:39 Training Intensity Distribution in Endurance Sports
21:34 Differences in Training Volume in Different Sports
22:30 Challenges in Comparing Different Types of Exercises
23:23 Quantification Methods for Training Intensity
27:07 Impact of Culture and Mentality on Training Intensity
31:48 Importance of Training History in Defining Training Intensity
33:14 Training Intensity Distribution in Cross-Country Skiing
34:08 Variation in Training Intensity Distribution
35:29 Importance of Zone 1 Training for Runners
39:14 Polarized Training in Cross-Country Skiers
41:30 Shift in Training Intensity Distribution during Competition Phase
43:52 Limitations of Single Case Studies and Cross-Country Skiing Bias
46:14 Variability in Training Intensity Distribution
50:32 Importance of Considering Sport-Specific Training Intensity Distribution
53:00 Impact of Culture and Mentality on Training Intensity
59:05 Differences in the Repeat VO2 Max Study
59:33 Using Wearables to Inform Training
01:00:31 Choosing a Training Model
01:01:55 Types of Wearables for Training
01:03:23 The 24-Hour Thinking Approach
01:04:48 Measuring Sleep Quality with Wearables
01:05:44 Identifying Technology for Training
01:07:10 Key Elements for Successful Training
01:08:39 Considering Biological and Measurement Variability
01:09:38 Where to Find Dr. Sperlich

18 snips
Feb 20, 2024 • 1h 4min
What is the Best Protocol for Improving VO2max? | #33 ft. Aaron Geiser
In this episode of the Critical Oxygen podcast, Aaron Geiser and I discuss VO2max protocols and how to make aerobic development fun. We address misconceptions about VO2 max and the importance of individualized training. We also explore different breathing techniques that may be able to improve performance and discuss the various VO2max protocols available.
In this episode, we discuss various aspects of VO2max training. We emphasize the importance of considering research and the specific needs of individual athletes when designing training programs. We also discuss adjusting output levels based on interval duration and the importance of recovery. The conversation touches on block periodization and making intelligent training decisions. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next episode, which will focus on making aerobic development more enjoyable.
TAKEAWAYS
1) Consider the research and the specific needs of individual athletes when designing VO2max training programs.
2) Adjust output levels based on the duration of intervals to ensure appropriate intensity.
3) Recovery is crucial for high-intensity training, and easy aerobic workouts can aid in the recovery process.
4) Make intelligent training decisions based on your own fitness level and goals, rather than blindly following popular training methods.
Enjoying these podcasts? Don't forget to subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released.
If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Follow Aaron on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/triageiser/
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Misconceptions about VO2 Max
19:58 Breathing Techniques for Improved Performance
22:20 Different VO2 Max Protocols
32:43 Individualized Approach to VO2 Max Training
45:15 Considerations for VO2 Max Training
51:04 Improving Oxygen Uptake and Research Considerations
53:25 Adjusting Output Levels for Different Interval Durations
55:22 Tailoring Training to Individual Needs
57:42 Maintaining Mental and Physical Energy
59:09 Importance of Recovery and Contextual Training
01:00:39 Considerations for Block Periodization
01:01:36 Making Intelligent Training Decisions
01:02:32 Context and Content in Training
01:03:00 Teaser for Next Week: Making Aerobic Development Fun

Feb 15, 2024 • 1h 7min
How many carbohydrates are required to run a sub 2-hour marathon? | #32 ft. Dr. Robert Jacobs
In this conversation, Dr. Robert A. Jacobs and I discuss his recently accepted paper on carbohydrate oxidation and performance in sub-2 hour marathons. We explore the role of fuel utilization, the impact of exogenous carbohydrate intake, and the limitations of respiratory exchange ratio (RER) as a measurement. We also discuss the importance of training the gut and the balance between carbohydrate intake and training. The conversation touches on the differences between elite athletes and the general population, as well as the definition of health and fitness.
The conversation explores the differences between running and cycling, the importance of watts per kilogram versus absolute power, the relationship between VO2 max and performance, the impact of weight on performance, the role of body fat percentage in performance, the significance of mitochondria in overall health and performance, the concept of critical power and critical oxygen, and the axis of oxidation as a key factor in performance.
TAKEAWAYS
1) Fuel utilization and carbohydrate oxidation play a crucial role in endurance performance, particularly in sub-2 hour marathons.
2) Exogenous carbohydrate intake can enhance performance, but there is a saturation point beyond which absorption is limited.
3) Training the gut is important for athletes to prevent gastrointestinal distress during exercise.
4) Running up a hill engages similar muscles as cycling, making it a valuable training exercise for cyclists.
5) Absolute power is more important for flat courses, while watts per kilogram becomes a stronger predictor for uphill courses.
6) VO2 max is a valuable measure, but other factors such as threshold and efficiency also play a role in performance.
7) The axis of oxidation, referring to the role of mitochondria in cellular energy production, is a key factor in performance.
Dr. Jacobs Paper -
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/japplphysiol.00521.2023
Enjoying these podcasts? Don't forget to subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released.
If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Interested in testing, courses, or other long form content check out the critical oxygen website - https://www.criticaloxygen.com
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Paper Acceptance
01:06 Interest in Fuel Utilization
03:56 Research Project on Carbohydrate Oxidation
08:39 Role of Carbohydrate and Fat Oxidation in Sub-2 Hour Marathon
09:22 Effect of Exogenous Carbohydrate Intake on Fat Oxidation
13:45 Limitations of RER as a Measurement
17:19 Higher Exogenous Carbohydrate Intake for Female Athletes
18:38 Carbohydrate Intake and Oxidation in the Study
19:38 Impact of Increased Carbohydrate Intake on Performance
21:24 Saturation Point of Carbohydrate Absorption
22:28 Factors Affecting Gastrointestinal Distress
25:21 Training the Gut
26:41 Balancing Carbohydrate Intake and Training
28:22 Elite Athletes and Peak Human Performance
30:08 Comparing Physical and Intellectual Abilities
32:46 Defining Health and Fitness
35:24 Acceptable Speed for Running a Mile
37:51 Measuring Mechanical Output in Running
38:38 Calories Burned While Running
40:02 Power Output in Running Uphill
41:09 Running vs Cycling
47:36 Watts per Kilogram vs Absolute Power
51:07 VO2 Max and Performance
53:16 Weight and Performance
56:09 Body Fat Percentage and Performance
59:26 Mitochondria and Performance
01:02:54 Critical Power and Critical Oxygen
01:05:13 The Axis of Oxidation

Feb 13, 2024 • 1h 11min
Coaching/Physiology Listener Questions and Answers Part 1 | #31 ft. Aaron Geiser
In this episode of the Critical Oxygen podcast, Aaron Geiser and I answer listener questions about endurance development, periodization, and training in a fasted state. We discuss the importance of balancing volume and intensity in training, and how to structure a long training cycle. We also explore the use of heart rate and watts for training, and the benefits and considerations of training in a fasted state for fat burning.
Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of individual context and goals in designing an effective training program. The conversation covers topics related to fueling before, during, and after workouts, the importance of calorie deficit/maintenance, body weight and body fat percentage, the diversity of body types in triathlon, factors to consider for ideal race weight, assessing wellness and performance, weight as a factor in long course triathlon, and the Zwift long ride as a community platform.
TAKEAWAYS
1) Proper fueling before, during, and after workouts is crucial for performance and recovery.
2) Being in a calorie deficit for extended periods can lead to self-cannibalization and hinder performance.
3) Body weight and body fat percentage should be considered in the context of overall health and performance.
4) Triathlon is a sport that embraces diversity of body types, and success is not limited to a specific ideal body weight or body fat percentage.
5 )Assessing wellness and performance through factors like mood, recovery, and nutrition is more important than focusing solely on weight.
Enjoying these podcasts, subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released.
If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Follow Aaron on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/triageiser/
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Listener Questions
02:18 The Importance of Volume and Intensity for Endurance Development
06:11 Periodizing a Long Training Cycle
13:41 Using Heart Rate and Wattage for Training
17:28 Periodizing a 12-Month Training Cycle
21:35 The Specific Phase of Training
23:56 Tapering and Competition Phase
30:13 Training in a Fasted State and Fat Burning
52:33 Fueling before, during, and after workouts
55:37 The importance of calorie deficit
56:34 Body weight and body fat percentage
59:31 Diversity of body types in triathlon
01:00:54 Factors to consider for ideal race weight
01:04:30 Assessing wellness and performance
01:07:58 Weight as a factor in long course triathlon
01:09:17 Zwift long ride as a community platform

Feb 8, 2024 • 1h 3min
Why Athletes Need to Slow Down and Do More Zone 2 Training | #30 ft. Sean Seale
In this episode, I talk with Coach Sean Seale from Upside Strength. He discusses his background in coaching and how his approach has evolved over the years. We emphasize the importance of bridging the gap between science and training, and the need for coaches to understand the individual needs and preferences of their athletes. We also highlight the benefits of cycling as a training modality and the importance of considering the demands of training in addition to the demands of the sport. We conclude by discussing the importance of balancing intensity and volume in training programs.
This conversation explores the importance of balancing fatigue and recovery in training. It emphasizes the need to find the right balance between accumulating fatigue and allowing for adequate recovery. The discussion also delves into the concept of zone 2 training and its benefits for performance improvement. It highlights the significance of identifying zone 2 boundaries and provides practical methods for implementing zone 2 training into a training plan. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of incorporating lower intensity training and daily physical activity for optimal performance and overall health.
TAKEAWAY
1) Understanding the individual needs and preferences of athletes is crucial for effective coaching.
2) Cycling is an underutilized training modality that can yield great benefits for athletes in various sports.
3) Training programs should consider the demands of training in addition to the demands of the sport.
4) Balancing intensity and volume is key to optimizing performance and preventing overtraining.
Enjoying these podcasts? Don't forget to subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released.
If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Follow Sean on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/upside_strength/
OR
Youtube - @Upsidestrength
Interested in testing, courses, or other long form content check out the critical oxygen website - https://www.criticaloxygen.com
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:30 Getting into Coaching
03:00 Bridging the Gap Between Science and Training
08:00 Coaching Approach and Collaboration
10:40 Evolution of Coaching Approach
17:00 Introduction to CrossFit
21:30 Assessments and Testing
25:00 Benefits of Cycling
32:00 Importance of Training Demands
38:30 Balancing Intensity and Volume
39:21 Balancing Fatigue and Recovery
48:43 Identifying Zone 2 Boundaries
57:23 The Importance of Zone 2 Training
01:01:13 The Benefits of Going Easier

Feb 6, 2024 • 60min
What is Exercise Economy and How Can You Improve It? | #29 ft. Dr. Robert Jacobs
In this episode of the Critical Oxygen podcast, Dr. Robert Jacobs and I discuss exercise economy and efficiency. We explain the importance of zone two training for improving volume and intensity, and it's role in increasing economy. We define exercise economy as the amount of oxygen per wattage or unit speed and discuss its measurement challenges. We also explore the factors that affect economy and efficiency, such as aging, experience, and biological changes. Additionally, we highlight the benefits of lifting heavy weights and provide practical examples for improving efficiency through strength training.
TAKEWAYS
1) Increasing volume by completing zone 2 training can help to improve running economy.
2) Heavy strength, powerful lifting, and plyometrics can help to improve economy and efficiency.
Good papers
Systematic review comparing plyometrics and heavy strength work: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36370207/
Optimizing strength training for running and cycling endurance performance: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23914932/
Enjoying these podcasts? Don't forget to subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released. If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2Interested in testing, courses, or other long form content check out the critical oxygen website - https://www.criticaloxygen.com
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Zone Two Training
19:02 Definition and Importance of Exercise Economy and Efficiency
27:41 Factors Affecting Economy and Efficiency
36:11 Lifting Heavy Weights for Improving Efficiency
48:34 Practical Examples for Improving Efficiency
52:28 The Importance of Rest and Heavy Strength Training
55:12 Kettlebell Workouts and Applied Resistance Training
57:00 Flexibility Training and its Impact on Efficiency
59:16 Closing Remarks

Feb 1, 2024 • 1h 13min
How to Use Science in Endurance Coaching | #28 ft. Michelle Simmons
In this episode of the Critical Oxygen podcast, I am joined by coach Michelle Simmons to discuss the intersection of science in coaching! We cover topics such as understanding thresholds and energy systems, the evolution of training and coaching, the role of lactate in training, fueling for performance, the myth of fasted training, carbohydrate and fat oxidation, the importance of being a hybrid athlete, and the role of mitochondria in energy production.
The discussion covers fatigue resistance and the role of mitochondrial function in staving off fatigue. We explore the benefits of easy training and high-intensity interval training. The conversation touches on lactate production and consumption, as well as the use of lactate as a fuel source. The importance of carbohydrate intake and its impact on performance is discussed, along with the need for individualization in training and nutrition.
More about Michelle in her words:
Personally: I did my first triathlon in 1995! Fell in love with it immediately. I continued to race for ~25 years. I rarely race anymore but I still train bc I enjoy it and want to be healthy and fit enough to train with my athletes at times. In my time, I did 18x Ironmans, including 4x in Kona.
Professionally: I started coaching a few friends in 2008. I took every opportunity to learn (still do!) and my coaching business grew to the point where I’ve been doing it full time for the last 15 years. I am the founder and Head Coach at TeamBSC Triathlon. I work with amateurs of all ages and abilities- some beginners and others who ultimately qualify for the World Champs! I’m actively involved in supporting endurance sports on Oahu. I coach Kailua Masters Swim team, lead a local monthly Girls Ride, and am a board member for Aloha State Bike Racing Association. Sometimes I present educational workshops for local athletes.
TAEKAWAYS
1) Understanding thresholds and energy systems is crucial for optimizing training and performance.
2) Coaching and training have evolved over the years, with a greater emphasis on individualization and understanding the underlying physiology.
3) Fueling properly before, during, and after workouts is essential for performance and recovery.
3) Mitochondria play a key role in energy production. Mitochondrial function plays a crucial role in fatigue resistance.
4) Easy training and high-intensity interval training both offer unique benefits for endurance athletes.
5) Lactate production and consumption are complex processes that contribute to energy production.
6) Carbohydrate intake should be individualized based on an athlete's specific needs and goals.
Enjoying these podcasts, subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released.
If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Follow Michelle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mama_simmons_/
Or visit her website - https://www.michellesimmonscoaching.com/
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:00 Learning from Experience and Coaching
08:00 Understanding Thresholds and Energy Systems
13:00 The Evolution of Training and Coaching
19:00 The Role of Lactate in Training
25:00 Fueling for Performance
32:00 The Myth of Fasted Training
38:00 Carbohydrate and Fat Oxidation
45:00 The Importance of Being a Hybrid Athlete
46:00 The Role of Mitochondria in Energy Production
47:01 Fatigue Resistance and Mitochondrial Function
49:00 Benefits of Easy Training and High-Intensity Interval Training
51:52 Lactate Production and Consumption
53:13 Cytomax and Lactate as a Fuel Source
55:44 Carbohydrate Intake and Performance
57:09 Debating Carbohydrate Intake
59:29 The Importance of Individualization
01:04:27 Simplifying Training and Nutrition
01:06:17 Practicality and Optimal Performance
01:09:29 The Role of Happiness in Performance
01:12:45 The Secret to Longevity in the Sport

Feb 1, 2024 • 1h 2min
How to Succeed at Life | #9 ft. Dr. Robert Jacobs
Welcome to the Critical Oxygen Podcast! In this episode Dr. Robert Jacobs and I talk about falling in love with exercise training and how it's helped us become better at what we do!
Enjoying these podcasts? Don't forget to subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released.
If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Interested in testing, courses, or other long form content check out the critical oxygen website - https://www.criticaloxygen.com
OUTLINE:
0:00 – Introduction
1:13 – The benefits of being an entrepreneurial PhD
2:07 – Plans for setting up a home physiology testing facility
3:00 – The advantages of an entrepreneurial lifestyle
4:00 – Competitive spirit in bike training
5:43 – Personal cycling achievements and challenges
8:01 – The significance of graded exercise protocols
9:04 – Discussion on optimizing performance
11:09 – Thoughts on altitude training
15:06 – On optimizing performance
17:11 – Scientific communication is key!
17:54 – Differences between males and females in cycling
20:16 – The dangers of professional cycling
22:00 – The risks of outdoor road cycling
23:03 – The benefits of indoor cycling
24:00 - Concerns about running outdoors
24:36 - Encounters with unruly drivers
25:11 - Maximizing performance and embracing discomfort
27:05 - World record in female marathon
28:44 - Reflecting on personal progress
31:51 - Importance of work-life balance
35:20 - Falling in love with exercise
38:35 - Balancing multiple responsibilities
46:13 - Morning Routine
47:10 - Nutrition on the Bike
47:23 - The Role of Nutrition
48:11 - Maurten Drink Mix
49:03 - Workout Performance
50:11 - Carbohydrate Composition
53:00 - Post-Workout Nutrition
58:21 - The Role of Exercise in Research
1:00:07 - Landscaping and Physical Work
1:01:27 - Conclusion

Feb 1, 2024 • 1h 5min
Is the Best Predictor of Endurance Performance your Muscle?! | #13 ft. Dr. Robert Jacobs
Welcome to the Critical Oxygen Podcast! In this episode Dr. Robert Jacobs and I talk about the importance of skeletal muscle in predicting endurance performance. We focus on the significance of capillaries, myoglobin, and mitochondria in endurance performance, along with research comparing predictors of performance.
Here is a link to my master's publication discussing predictors of performance - https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.14814/phy2.14342
If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Interested in testing, courses, or other long form content check out the critical oxygen website - https://www.ctiricaloxygen.com
OUTLINE:
0:00 – Introduction
1:04 – Remote Physiology Assessment in Kona
6:12 – Training Zone Adjustments
7:01 – Monitoring and Adapting Training Zones
8:05 – Expanding Testing to Running and Rowing
9:29 – Challenges in Implementing Treadmill Assessments
10:00 – Availability of Remote Testing
11:35 – Ultra Marathon Nutrition Strategy
15:04 – Despair in Training vs. Ultra Marathon
16:52 – Gut Training Experiment with Milk
20:05 – Carbohydrate Intake and Fuel Oxidation
24:59 – Shifting Focus Back to Predictors of Performance
25:24 - Importance of Capillaries, Myoglobin, and Mitochondria
25:58 - Mitochondrial Function as a Key Predictor of Performance
26:15 - The Skeletal Muscle and Capillary Myoglobin Mitochondria Axis
26:33 - Research on Traditional Predictors of Performance
27:11 - Comparison to a 40-Kilometer Time Trial
28:13 - Diverse Study Participants
29:00 - V02 Max Test Methodology
30:24 - V02 Max Verification at 110%
32:02 - Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) Calibration
33:02 - Arterial Occlusion and Cuffing Protocol
36:01 - Validation of Cuffing Protocol
39:11 - Personal Experiences as a Participant
43:05 - Regenerative Medicine and Mesenchymal Cell Injections
48:16 - The Benefits of Regenerative Medicine?
49:01 - Back to the Predictors of Performance
49:32 - The 25-Kilometer Time Trial
50:25 - The Role of Oxygen in Muscles
51:53 - Traditional Predictors of Performance
53:04 - Near-Infrared Derived Predictors of Performance
54:09 - The Implications of the Study
57:00 - Oxygen Delivery and Utilization
58:02 - The Significance of NIRS Measurements
1:00:03 - Shifting Oxygen Balance in Muscle
1:00:28 - The Importance of Robust Mitochondria
1:02:07 - Summary: Oxygenation in Working Muscle
1:03:36 - The Role of Mitochondria in Complex Life

Feb 1, 2024 • 1h 11min
What is maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) and why is it important? | #17 ft. Dr. Robert Jacobs
This episode of the Critical Oxygen podcast discusses VO2max, the maximum amount of oxygen a person can uptake and utilize during exercise. Dr. Robert Jacobs and I provide a definition and historical context of VO2max, explaining its importance in determining aerobic potential. We then discuss the Fick equation and indirect calorimetry as methods to measure VO2max. The reliability and limitations of VO2max testing are explored, along with considerations for testing protocols. We also discuss training protocols to improve VO2max and highlight the importance of individualized approaches. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into understanding and optimizing VO2max.
TAKEAWAYS
1) VO2max is the maximum amount of oxygen a person can uptake and utilize during exercise, and it is an important indicator of aerobic potential.
2) The Fick equation and indirect calorimetry are used to measure VO2max, with cardiac output and VO2 difference being key factors.
3) VO2max testing has limitations and requires careful consideration of testing protocols and the expertise of the tester.
4) Training protocols to improve VO2 max include high-intensity intervals at or near VO2 max.
5) Individualized approaches to VO2max testing and training are important for optimal results.
6) The pulmonary system, including CO2 exchange, can be a limiting factor for VO2 max.
7) Exercise-induced arterial hypoxemia can impact VO2 max, particularly at high altitudes.
8) Cardiac output and stroke volume play a role in determining VO2 max.
9) Skeletal muscle mitochondrial adaptations can also influence VO2 max.
Don't forget to subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released.
If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Interested in testing, courses, or other long form content check out the critical oxygen website - https://www.criticaloxygen.com
OUTLINE
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:24 Definition and Historical Context of VO2Max
04:12 Determining VO2Max: Fick Equation and Measurement Techniques
06:09 Indirect Calorimetry and Indirect Measurement of Energy Expenditure
08:08 VO2 Max Testing: Reliability and Limitations
18:07 VO2 Max Testing Protocols and Considerations
36:40 Improving VO2 Max: Training Protocols
45:48 VO2 Max Research and Practical Application
47:15 Introduction to the paper on VO2 max
48:12 Discussion on the pulmonary system
49:45 Consideration of gender differences
50:13 Limitations of male-biased research
51:32 Exercise-induced arterial hypoxemia
55:08 Importance of pulmonary system for CO2
56:22 Respiratory muscle training
57:45 Cardiac output and stroke volume
01:01:29 Importance of hemoglobin and cardiac output
01:05:07 Skeletal muscle mitochondrial adaptations
01:09:05 Importance of measuring VO2 max
01:09:46 Consideration of skeletal muscle as a limiter of VO2 max
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