VO2 MAX: THE BEST PREDICTOR OF LONGEVITY YOU'RE NOT MEASURING
- Karla Despradel
- Apr 28
- 1 min read
While many focus only on looking good in the mirror, there’s a crucial health marker that often goes unnoticed, and it’s key to living longer and better: your VO2 Max.

VO2 Max is the maximum amount of oxygen your body can use during exercise. The higher it is, the better your cardiovascular capacity and metabolic efficiency. Medically, a high VO2 Max is linked to a longer life, a lower risk of chronic diseases, and better functional ability in old age.
Why Is It Important?
It’s one of the best predictors of longevity.
It shows how efficient your cardiorespiratory system is.
It’s directly linked to physical performance and endurance.
It helps prevent cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
How to Improve It?
Interval Training (HIIT): Short bursts of high-intensity effort followed by active recovery periods.
Zone 2 Training (steady cardio for long periods): Fast walking, light jogging, cycling for 35–60 minutes.
Mixed Training: A combination of activities like rowing, running, biking, functional training, & weightlifting.
How to Know Your VO2 Max?
You can estimate it with smartwatches or through stress tests at specialized centers. But beyond the exact number, what really matters is improving it progressively.
In Practice:
Dedicate 1–2 sessions per week to boosting your aerobic capacity.
Combine intensity and duration to stimulate different adaptations.
Use nasal breathing to strengthen cardiopulmonary efficiency.
It’s not just about how long you live: it’s about how well you live. Improving your VO2 Max is one of the smartest decisions you can make to enhance and extend your quality of life.
At Bodyignition, we help people build their aerobic capacity as part of a comprehensive strategy for longevity, performance, and vitality.