VO2 max is an intimidating word for an easy-to-understand biometric: It's how well your body uses oxygen when you push yourself. Short for "maximal oxygen uptake," it's been the gold standard for assessing cardiorespiratory fitness since the 1950s. Until recently, it's mostly lived in research labs and elite training centers, helping coaches squeeze every last drop of performance out of elite skiers, runners, and cyclists.
Dr. Kevin Sprouse, owner of Podium Sports Medicine andmedical advisor for longevity clinic Eternal, has worked with elite athletes for more than a decade, helping them to achieve peak performance. He told Business Insider that the same science can help anyone live a longer, healthier life - by targeting factors like VO2 max and lactate threshold, key measures of fitness and endurance. His prescription for the best results - even on a tight schedule - is a mix of strength training, steady cardio, and interval training.
