Mortality: When looking at VO2 max with all-cause mortality, there is a trend. Simply bringing your VO2 max from ‘low’ (bottom 25th percentile) to ‘below average’ (25th to 50th percentile) is associated with a 50% reduction in all-cause mortality. When you go from ‘low’ to ‘above average’ (50th to 75th percentile) the risk reduction is closer to 70%! All-cause mortality=dying from any cause.
Health and Longevity: Improving VO2 max is associated with better overall health and longevity. Research shows that individuals with higher VO2 max tend to have a lower risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.20,21
Cardiovascular Fitness: A higher VO2 max is often a marker of better cardiovascular fitness. It reflects your body's ability to deliver oxygen to the muscles, which is crucial for energy production during physical activity. Improved cardiovascular fitness can enhance heart health and reduce the risk of heart-related issues.
Physical Performance: VO2 max is a key determinant of athletic performance, particularly in endurance sports. Individuals with higher VO2 max levels can sustain higher exercise intensities for longer durations, which is beneficial for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.24,25
Energy Efficiency: A good VO2 max indicates that your body is efficient at utilizing oxygen to produce energy. This efficiency can translate to improved stamina, reduced fatigue, and enhanced exercise capacity.
Better Quality of Life: Having a higher VO2 max can improve your overall quality of life by making daily activities easier to perform and enhancing your physical capabilities. It can also reduce the risk of experiencing physical limitations as you age.
Metabolic Benefits: VO2 max is linked to metabolic health. A higher VO2 max is often associated with better glucose control, insulin sensitivity, and overall metabolic efficiency, which can contribute to better health and lower disease risk.
Adaptability: You can train your body to become more adaptable by increasing your VO2 max. This adaptability can help you handle physical challenges, stressors, and changes in your environment more effectively.
Longevity and Aging: Research suggests that individuals with a higher VO2 max tend to age more slowly and experience a longer health span.