Vo2 Max Research Paper

VO2 max is defined as the maximum volume of oxygen that can be consumed per minute as a measure of fitness (Marlin). To accurately measure VO2 max a maximal amount of physical effort will be needed to fully tax the aerobic energy system. Exercise intensity will be increased while measuring ventilation and oxygen and carbon dioxide concentration of the the inhaled and exhaled air. VO2 max is achieved when oxygen consumption remains at steady state despite an increase in work intensity. Those who are deemed fit will have a higher VO2 max. Proper exercise and training can influence your VO2 max while age can cause your vo2 max to decrease. The mean value of VO2 max for male athletes is estimated at 3.5 litres/ minute and for a female athlete is about 2.7 litres/minute these number are referred to as the absolute value. Physical limitations and physiological factors will affect the Vo2 max testing. Using the modified Bruce protocol and analysis the results, Dr. Burt Staniar and Abby Hughes determined their respective VO2 maxes. VO2 max is reported

Observing the charts below you will notice Dr. Burt continuously had a higher VO2/kg average. Men generally will have a higher VO2 max due to increased thoracic cavity size, thus allowing for more oxygen uptake. While being a male put Dr. Staniar at an advantage for a higher VO2 max, being above the age of 40 but him at a disadvantage. As we get older VO2 max will decrease because of a reduced maximum heart rate and stroke volume. While maintaining exercise and staying fit will not affect maximum heart rate it will alter stroke volume positively in some degree. The average VO2 max for men per year is 0.46 ml/kg/min and for women is 0.54 ml/kg/min. A true plateau is never seen in the graphs. This could be due to experimental error or neither participant truly never reaching maximal oxygen uptake due to experiencing discomfort