MAXIMAL AEROBIC CAPACITY (VO2max): A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW

Abstract

Background. The ability to perform extended, intense activity and the combined capacity of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems are known as cardio-respiratory fitness (CRF), also referred to as maximal aerobic power. It typically reported as VO2 max. Aim: To investigate the maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max) in young adults. Materials and methods. This observational research was done on 100 seemingly healthy 18-25-year-old individuals at the RUHS College of Medical Sciences in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Maximal Aerobic Capacity was assessed by analyzing the gases involved in pulmonary ventilation directly while completing exercise stress test on treadmill using various protocols.  Results. The VO2 max and tidal volume had a weak positive association (r = 0.345). There was a weak positive association between VO2 max and tidal volume in male (r = 0.128) and female (r = 0.039) respectively. There was a weak negative association between VO2 max and oxygen saturation in male individuals (r = -0.216) and female individuals (r = -0.059). There was a weak positive relationship between VO2 max and GPAQ in both male (r = 0.009) and female (r = 0.065) participants. Conclusion. Both male and female individuals had a weak positive correlation between VO2 max and tidal volume, but a weak negative correlation for O2 saturation, which was caused by increased oxygen demand during exercise. There was a weak positive correlation between VO2 max and GPAQ. This concluded weak but statistically non- significant relationship of daily physical activity with VO2 max and GPAQ.