Why You Should Reach Your VO2 Max Once a Week + How To Do It

Cardio is a polarizing exercise method—some people love it, while others despise it (admittedly, I’m in the latter club). But regardless of how we anti-cardio folks feel, one thing is becoming clear: Incorporating cardio into your workout routine is essential no matter what.

More specifically, it’s important to engage in cardio activities that push your body to its VO₂ max, or maximal oxygen consumption. In a recent episode of the mindbodygreen podcast, we explored why this is crucial for longevity and the best way to do it.

According to Andy Galpin, Ph.D., performance coach, kinesiology professor, and co-director of the Center for Sports Performance at CSU Fullerton, “VO₂ max would outpredict anything else you could possibly measure. Blood work, blood pressure, scans of any type, nothing will tell you more about your life span than VO₂ max.”