Understanding VO2 max and its impact on health

VO2 max measures how well your body uses oxygen during exercise, indicating your aerobic fitness. A higher VO2 max means better energy production for daily activities and is linked to lower risks of heart issues. Factors like age, sex, and fitness level affect VO2 max, which typically peaks in your early 30s and declines with age. Regular exercise can slow this decline and improve your VO2 max over time. To enhance your VO2 max, engage in cardiovascular activities like walking, running, or high-intensity interval training. Tracking your recovery time after exercise can also indicate improvements in your fitness level.