VO₂ Max Testing: What It Is, Why It Matters, and Who It’s For
- Rebecca Salmon
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 21
Whether you're training for your next marathon or Hyrox, just getting back into fitness, struggling with weight loss, or simply want to understand your health better, VO₂ max testing can give you the insight you need to train smarter, move better, and feel stronger.
At Active Medicine, we offer laboratory-grade VO₂ max testing with full metabolic analysis - all interpreted by a doctor specialising in Sport & Exercise Medicine.
What is VO₂ Max?
VO₂ max is a measure of how much oxygen your body can use under stress (e.g. exercise). The higher your VO₂ max, the more efficiently your heart, lungs, and muscles work together - which means better endurance, faster recovery, and more energy in everyday life.
It’s widely recognised as one of the most accurate markers of cardiovascular fitness, and predictor of long-term health.
Why Should You Test It?
Take out the guesswork! Whether you’re trying to improve your fitness, manage your weight, avoid burnout, or train for an event - knowing your numbers is the difference between training blind and training smart.
With every test, you’ll receive a personalised report explaining:
Your VO₂ max or Peak VO₂
Your aerobic and anaerobic thresholds
Heart rate training zones (for fat-burning, endurance, performance)
Fat max and energy substrate use (ideal for endurance fuelling or weight loss)
Recommendations tailored to your goals and fitness level
Who’s It For?
Spoiler alert: not just elite athletes.
This testing is useful for:
Fitness enthusiasts who want to push performance and avoid overtraining
High performance seekers juggling work, training, and recovery
Older adults looking to stay fit, active, and independent
Beginners who want a safe, effective plan to start or return to exercise
People managing weight or long-term health conditions who need accurate insights into energy use and exercise tolerance
What Happens During a Test?
Testing is done on a treadmill or bike, using a small mask to measure your breathing while gradually increasing the intensity. It's supervised from start to finish, and adapted to suit your fitness level. Most people find that the mask is very comfortable.
Before the test, we carry out a full health screening so you can be confident the process is safe and appropriate for you.
Led by a Doctor, Not an Algorithm
Your results aren’t just numbers - they’re interpreted by a Sport & Exercise Medicine Doctor who understands your body, your goals, and your unique physiology.
Ready to Take the Guesswork Out of Your Training?
Whether you're levelling up, starting over, or just curious about what your body can do - VO₂ max testing could be the most useful 30 minutes you spend this month.
Available in Glasgow (in-clinic or mobile) and Kilmarnock
