What is Metabolic Testing and how does it help you?
By Berkana Rehabilitation Institute
Metabolic testing is a method of exercise testing that is used to describe how fit you are. Although there are many ways to measure this (such as wearable devices), VO2 max testing is considered the gold standard since it is based on information gathered while you are exercising. This is because the information is specific to your body rather than a general calculation or estimate.
Specifically, a VO2 max, or maximal oxygen consumption, test typically involves running (or walking) on a treadmill or cycling on a stationary bike while wearing a mask that measures the amount of oxygen you inhale and exhale while exercising. The intensity of exercise is progressively increased until you reach maximal exhaustion. The VO2 max score, which is based on gender and age group normative data, represents the maximum amount of oxygen your body can take in, transport, and use during intense physical activity. In short, it’s a measure of how efficiently your cardiovascular and respiratory systems work together.
Although VO2 max testing is often associated with athletes, the American Heart Association and other organizations recommend incorporating it into routine clinical evaluations since it can provide insights into an individual’s risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, fall risk and dementia. VO2 max is one of the best predictors of longevity and studies have even shown that it can be predictive of concussion risk in athletes.
Who should get tested?
VO2 max testing can be beneficial for a wide range of individuals, including:
- Individuals interested in fitness: To assess your current fitness level, set goals and guide personalized training plans, including setting heart rate training zones.
- People with chronic conditions: To monitor the impact of exercise on your health.
- Individuals seeking to improve their cardiovascular health: To gain insights into your fitness and develop a personalized training plan.
- Performance enhancement: For athletes, VO2 max testing helps identify strengths and weaknesses, optimize training, and improve performance.
- Understanding fat burning: VO2 testing helps determine the optimal intensity level for burning fat during exercise.
- Monitoring progress: VO2 max testing can be used to track progress over time and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs.
- Risk assessment: VO2 max testing can also provide insights into a variety of health risks, including your risk of falls – the second leading cause of unintentional deaths worldwide.
Important considerations:
- Medical clearance: VO2 max testing is a maximal exertion test, meaning it can place significant stress on the cardiovascular and respiratory system. Based on your health history, it may be important to consult with a doctor before undergoing VO2 max testing.
- Submaximal tests: For those with underlying health risks or orthopedic issues, some less intense tests (submaximal) can provide estimates of VO2 max.
Berkana Rehabilitation, LLC is located at:
2001 S. Shields Street, Bldg A1,
Fort Collins, CO 80526
