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VO2 max
noun
: the maximum amount of oxygen the body can utilize during a specified period of usually intense exercise
Examples of VO2 max in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
For most people, VO2 max declines with age.1 VO2 max is measured in milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute (mL/kg/min).
—Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 7 Oct. 2024
Other goals include training for a 10K, executing a sun salutation on a paddleboard, or improving important health metrics like your VO2 max.
Before attempting unfamiliar workouts, develop a base level of fitness by meeting the minimum guidelines.
—Matt Fuchs, TIME, 30 Sep. 2024
The program also increased maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max), a fitness level marker.
—Kristin Canning, Health, 22 Sep. 2024
Elephants, on the other hand, have an average VO2 max of about 10-20.
—Scott Travers, Forbes, 21 Sep. 2024
In one study, the group who jumped rope twice per day for 12 weeks improved their VO2 max and functional movement compared with those who did not include jumping rope in their fitness routine.4
Other research shows that jumping rope can be beneficial for people at risk for cardiovascular disease.
—Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 10 Sep. 2024
But there are a good number of studies that look at it after the fact: One 2022 study of elite soccer players found their VO2 max—a measure of how efficiently their bodies use oxygen during exercise—was reduced from baseline up to two months after infection.
—Julie Stewart, SELF, 5 Sep. 2024
In a 1991 paper, Joyner calculated the likely best possible VO2 max, lactate threshold, and running economy a person can achieve.
—Zoë Schlanger, The Atlantic, 8 Aug. 2024
In a 1991 paper, Michael Joyner studied elite distance runners and determined the best possible VO2 max, lactate threshold and running economy.
—Emily Giambalvo, Washington Post, 26 July 2024
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Word History
Etymology
volume of O2 maximum
First Known Use
1970, in the meaning defined above
Cite this Entry
“VO2 max.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/VO2%20max. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
Medical Definition
VO2 max
noun
: the maximum amount of oxygen the body can use during a specified period of usually intense exercise that depends on body weight and the strength of the lungs
called also maximal oxygen consumption, maximal oxygen uptake, max VO2
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