如果你会计算碳水化合物摄入量、记录跑步圈数，且几乎不会忘记带FitBit运动手环出门，那么你早已深谙健康数据收集的重要性。但如今，一项曾仅用于精英运动员实验室的测试，正为所有人提供更强大的健身数据——无论你是羽毛球爱好者还是马拉松常客。最大摄氧量测试的益处远不止于运动领域：它能为你提供关于疾病风险、能量水平乃至营养需求的宝贵洞察。
Here are a few reasons why you should test yours:
Identify Disease Risk
A lower VO2 max is directly associated with an increased risk of multiple chronic illnesses, like Type 2 Diabetes. By taking a VO2 max test, you hold another powerful indicator of your health and physical fitness in the palm of your hand. Use the information and work diligently to keep your heart and lungs strong, and you can decrease your risk of contracting chronic illnesses.
Track Your Progress Objectively
Watching that number on the scale? Looking at your mile pace over time? Shooting to lift more than you did last week? You’re tracking some factors that contribute to your health, but not your overall cardiovascular fitness level. VO2 max is the most precise, scientific way to measure your current fitness level. After implementing changes, you can test again and track your degree of change. And you can compare your stats to those of other people your age.
Exercise Efficiently and Avoid Overtraining
You’ll learn about your custom training zones based on your VO2 max. If you’re looking to improve your speed and fitness, there’s a precise zone for just that. A professional can help break down your data to recommend the amount of time spent in each zone, preventing injury and overtraining. Check out some examples of VO2 max workout formats in this Active.com article. The goal? To spend the right amount of time training and the right amount recovering, in order see real, data-driven results in your performance.
With the information VO2 max testing returns, you gain a serious advantage and control over your health and wellness.