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What is V02 Max, AT, and AeT?

VO2 Max reflects the total capacity of the cardiac, respiratory and muscular systems during an individual's absolute maximum exertion. To achieve an elevated VO2 Max requires that the heart is capable of supplying sufficient blood to the muscle tissue, that the lungs are capable of supplying the needed oxygen to the blood and that the muscle tissue is sufficiently conditioned to use all of the oxygen supplied by the blood. It is a measure of fitness that is adjusted for body size, allowing values to be comparable between individuals.

Anaerobic Threshold (AT) is the exercise intensity level at which the muscles are not supplied enough blood and begin to incur an "oxygen debt." At this exercise level, lactic acid production in the muscles increases and fatigue sets in. Vigorous effort can be sustained for an extended duration at exercise intensity levels below the anaerobic threshold. The anaerobic threshold is measured as a part of a VO2 Max test and is generally on the upper end of sustainable aerobic capacity, on the threshold of transitioning to anaerobic metabolism.

Aerobic Threshold (AeT) is an exercise intensity level where oxygen supply is adequate for the major muscle groups. Below the aerobic threshold, lipid oxidation (fat) is the primary source of energy, indicating a level of effort that can be maintained for many hours. Training just below this exercise intensity level is ideal for a sustained caloric burn. Aerobic Threshold is typically on the lower end of sustainable aerobic capacity and is detected by a KORR™ VO2 Max test.