Some people dread cardio, and others can’t seem to get enough of it. Whether you love or loathe long runs, quick sprints, and burpees, one thing is certain: Your cardiovascular health is important.
If you regularly lift but keep the treadmill at arm\'s length, you might want to check out the latest buzzword taking the fitness world by storm: VO2 max.
Here is a basic overview of the VO2 max measurement and how you can improve yours.
What Does VO2 Max Measure?
Your VO2 max is a measurement of how much oxygen your body can absorb and use during intense activity; this number is a great way to gauge your aerobic fitness. The most reliable way to measure your VO2 max is to visit a doctor or physical therapist who can record your oxygen consumption levels while you exercise. If that isn’t an option, many fitness watches can help you estimate your score.
Why Does It Matter?
While a low VO2 max is linked to many health complications typically associated with low physical activity, it is also associated with stress, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. After all, if deep breaths have the ability to soothe your nerves, the quality of those breaths matters.
How Can You Raise It?
If you dread cardio, you’re in luck—kind of. While typical heart-rate-boosting activities such as running, biking, and swimming are some of the most reliable ways to improve your aerobic fitness, there are a few ways to boost your oxygen absorption besides sprints.
Here are a few training tips to boost your VO2 max:
- Don’t Just Work Harder—Work Smarter: To maximize your fitness results, incorporate an electronic muscle stimulator into your workout routine. This technology may promote circulation and help you engage more muscle fibers in an activity, allowing you to get the most out of your training.
- Prioritize Rest: Your muscles need time to repair and replenish in order to bounce back from your workouts stronger. The same goes for improving cardiovascular endurance. While running and biking can certainly help you boost your VO2 max, low-impact exercise can also help boost your aerobic fitness. Try to focus on hitting your daily step goal and gentle stretching on your rest days.
- Train Slow-Twitch Muscles: Cardio requires a lot of endurance, and it can be tough to transition from dreading the treadmill to running for miles. Luckily, training your slow-twitch muscles first can help you build up your endurance, making cardio easier, more bearable, and maybe even fun! Electrical stimulation for muscles programs designed to boost endurance by engaging slow-twitch muscle fibers can help you prepare to boost your VO2 max.
Whether you’re training for your first 5k, your fifth marathon, or simply want to lower your stress and increase your cardiovascular health, your VO2 max is a great reference point. By understanding this measurement and using the right tools and training techniques, you can take your aerobic fitness to the next level.
About Compex®
Every athlete, from record-breaking sprinters to rec league legends, knows the importance of training and recovery. Whether your sport is your career or your hobby, you need the right resources to help you achieve your goals. For over 30 years, Compex® has provided athletes of all levels with cutting-edge physiotherapy equipment to help them push their limits and enhance their recovery. From EMS muscle stimulators designed to aid any aspect of your gym regimen to portable massage machines that help you recover on the go, Compex® equipment can take your training to the next level. Whether you’re setting world, local, or personal records, turn to Compex®.
Find equipment to elevate your training at https://www.compex.com/
Original Source: https://bit.ly/3AdzmhT
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