GLOSSARY

VO₂max (maximal oxygen uptake) is the greatest amount of oxygen the body can take up, transport, and use during maximal exercise, and is regarded as the gold-standard measure of cardiorespiratory fitness.

Units

• Absolute: litres per minute; suited to non-weight-bearing sports such as rowing.
• Relative: millilitres per kilogram of body mass per minute; suited to running and weight-bearing sports.

Values

• Sedentary young men: about 35–45.
• Sedentary young women: about 30–40.
• Elite runners and cross-country skiers: 70 to over 90.

Limiting Factors