
53 Studies Later: The Best Way to Improve VO2
Physionic
Jan 1, 2025
Mindsip insights from this episode:
Choose HIIT to maximize VO2 max improvement
A meta-analysis of over 50 studies concluded that several high-intensity training (HIIT) methods are superior to moderate-intensity exercise for improving VO2 max.
Estimate your max heart rate using age formula
An easy, though imperfect, way to find your maximum heart rate for training is to use the simple formula of 220 minus your age.
Implement 4-minute HIIT protocol for effective workouts
An alternative effective protocol is repeating 4 cycles of 4 minutes of sprinting at 90-95% max heart rate followed by 3 minutes of active rest.
Incorporate active rest in HIIT for optimal performance
The rest periods in effective HIIT protocols are 'active,' meaning you should be jogging at around 70% of your maximum heart rate instead of stopping completely.
Implement 15-second HIIT protocol for maximum heart rate training
One effective protocol involves repeating 47 cycles of 15 seconds of sprinting at 90-95% max heart rate followed by 15 seconds of active rest.
Measure VO2 max to assess overall body health
VO2 max is an excellent proxy for health because it requires your lungs, heart, blood cells, and muscle mitochondria to all be working efficiently.
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