What Is VO2 Max?

VO2 max, or maximal oxygen uptake, is one factor that can determine an athlete's capacity to perform sustained exercise and is linked to aerobic endurance. VO2 max refers to the maximum amount of oxygen that an individual can utilize during intense or maximal exercise. It is measured as "milliliters of oxygen used in one minute per kilogram of body weight." This measurement is generally considered the best indicator of an athlete's cardiovascular fitness and aerobic endurance. (Elizabeth Quinn/About Sports Medicine)