Push Limits for Growth

Hormesis teaches us that pushing ourselves just beyond our limits, without causing harm, strengthens our body systems. By engaging in activities like jump training and weightlifting slightly above our comfort level, we signal our body to adapt and grow stronger. Specifically, for improving VO2 max, the key is to challenge our cardiovascular capacity with high-intensity interval training (HIIT), creating a pattern of alternating between high and low heart rates. While walking can benefit those with low VO2 max, serious athletes need to train at higher heart rates to see significant improvements.