VO2 Max–Why It Matters for Health and Longevity

VO2 max reflects the ability of your lungs, heart, blood vessels, muscles, and mitochondria to use oxygen to produce energy, say experts.

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When was the last time your doctor mentioned your VO2 max? Probably never. Yet this simple measure—how well your body uses oxygen during exercise—offers important insights into heart and lung health. Previously a tool for elite athletes, VO2 max is now making its way into clinical medicine, and for good reason.

Dr. Asare Christian, a longevity expert and founder of Aether Medicine, describes VO2 max as “one of the most important predictors of both the length and quality of life.”