4 Proven Ways to Increase Your VO2 Max

Numerous factors come into play when you want to improve your cycling performance, including following a training plan, doing workouts off the bike, and adopting a strong mental game. But one of the most important factors that affects your rides is your VO2 max. VO2 max is a measure of the total amount of oxygen you can take in and use during an effort, but it’s not only about how much comes in—it’s also about how well you utilize that oxygen, especially when you’re at full force. Think of it as a measure of efficiency: The more you can maximize that process, the greater your endurance and speed. The most notable challenge with assessing your VO2 max is that you may not have access to a sports lab with a gas analyzer or open-circuit spirometer, which measures the amount of oxygen you consume while on a stationary bike. However, most smartwatches will also estimate your VO2 max for you, even if it’s not as accurate as an in-lab test. In terms of how to increase your VO2 max, consider these suggestions from certified cycling coaches and researchers on how to increase your efficiency in ways that can lead to performance gains. [View in Browser]( [Bicycling]( [SHOP]( [EXCLUSIVE]( [SUBSCRIBE]( [4 Proven Ways to Increase Your VO2 Max]( [4 Proven Ways to Increase Your VO2 Max]( [4 Proven Ways to Increase Your VO2 Max]( Numerous factors come into play when you want to improve your cycling performance, including following a training plan, doing workouts off the bike, and adopting a strong mental game. But one of the most important factors that affects your rides is your VO2 max. VO2 max is a measure of the total amount of oxygen you can take in and use during an effort, but it’s not only about how much comes in—it’s also about how well you utilize that oxygen, especially when you’re at full force. Think of it as a measure of efficiency: The more you can maximize that process, the greater your endurance and speed. The most notable challenge with assessing your VO2 max is that you may not have access to a sports lab with a gas analyzer or open-circuit spirometer, which measures the amount of oxygen you consume while on a stationary bike. However, most smartwatches will also estimate your VO2 max for you, even if it’s not as accurate as an in-lab test. In terms of how to increase your VO2 max, consider these suggestions from certified cycling coaches and researchers on how to increase your efficiency in ways that can lead to performance gains. Numerous factors come into play when you want to improve your cycling performance, including following a training plan, doing workouts off the bike, and adopting a strong mental game. But one of the most important factors that affects your rides is your VO2 max. VO2 max is a measure of the total amount of oxygen you can take in and use during an effort, but it’s not only about how much comes in—it’s also about how well you utilize that oxygen, especially when you’re at full force. Think of it as a measure of efficiency: The more you can maximize that process, the greater your endurance and speed. The most notable challenge with assessing your VO2 max is that you may not have access to a sports lab with a gas analyzer or open-circuit spirometer, which measures the amount of oxygen you consume while on a stationary bike. However, most smartwatches will also estimate your VO2 max for you, even if it’s not as accurate as an in-lab test. In terms of how to increase your VO2 max, consider these suggestions from certified cycling coaches and researchers on how to increase your efficiency in ways that can lead to performance gains. 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