Why get tested for VO2max

Why get tested for VO2max/EMR (aerobic base and anaerobic threshold, Exercise Metabolic Rate) and RMR (resting metabolic rate)? By testing these two things, we can see where our bodies are from a scientific perspective, in respect to how many calories we burn at rest (RMR), and also where we are most efficient at using our fuels (fats and carbohydrates) during exercise (VO2max/EMR). By using these two things, we can adjust our diet to gain/lose/manage our weight, and we can use our heart rate as a parameter in training, to train the appropriate system(s) of the body to achieve any and all goals and aspirations that we may have regarding performance and or weight gain/loss/management.

By determining RMR, we can see how many calories our bodies burn at rest. This will be our basal metabolic rate, or, how many calories our bodies burn per day, to carry out the jobs and responsibilities of the autonomic (parasympathetic) nervous system (i.e. heartbeat, lung/respiratory function, vital organ function-kidneys, liver, brain to name a couple). Once we find this out, we can adjust the amount of calories that we take in on a daily basis to gain, lose or manage weight. We can also adjust our diet, as well as take in to account the calories we lose through exercise (if you do). This test is not just for people who are active and exercise, but also for those who do not exercise who would like to see where their metabolism is, and then from there can just adjust diet, or incorporate exercise into their lives, or both. We have a consultation after the test to discuss these possible options.

By determining VO2max/EMR, we can see at what heart rate we reach our Aerobic Base, and at what heart rate we reach our Anaerobic Threshold. We can either do a max test (this is where we completely exhaust both the aerobic and anaerobic systems of the body), or a sub max test (this would be for the de-conditioned person looking to start an exercise program). Both tests will give us great indicators of what heart rates we need to train at to produce specific adaptations in the three inherent systems of the body: the aerobic system (Slow Twitch Type I muscle fibers), anaerobic glycolitic (Fast Twitch Type IIa muscle fibers), and anaerobic CP (Fast Twitch Type IIx muscle fibers). All of these muscular systems, and their limits, are determined by the heart. Every person is different, and therefore, will have different limiting factors. Different people will have different aerobic bases and anaerobic thresholds, and their different training programs should reflect these differences appropriately.

Please contact me to get your test(s) done today!!!