22/07/2026
Lee came in last week for a VO₂ max test.
He’s recently started running and wanted to know exactly where his training zones were to make sure his training was as effective as it could be, understand what training effect he was getting at different paces, and hopefully reduce the chances of injury by not doing every run too hard.
The nice thing with VO₂ testing is you take the guesswork out of it.
We found:
• His VO₂ max - giving us a great baseline fitness score.
• His Zone 2.
• His lactate threshold.
• His heart rate and pace training zones.
So now he knows exactly what pace and heart rate to aim for depending on the goal of the session.
Easy runs to build his aerobic base and improve fat burning.
Threshold runs to improve the pace he can hold before fatiguing.
Intervals to improve his VO₂ max and top-end fitness.
Rather than every run becoming the same pace, each session now has a purpose.
The other big advantage is we’ve got a proper benchmark. We can repeat the test in 6-12 months and see exactly how much his fitness has improved rather than relying on estimates from a watch.
You definitely don’t have to be a pro to have a VO₂ max test either.
It’s just as useful if you’ve recently started running, want to train for your first race, improve your cycling, prepare for Hyrox or simply want to improve your health and fitness. Knowing your own physiology means you can train smarter, recover better and make the most of the time you spend exercising.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re training at the right intensity, or just want to know how fit you really are, get in touch.
