What is VO2 Max?
VO2 max is the maximum amount of oxygen your body can utilize during intense exercise. It's measured in milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute (ml/kg/min).
Why it matters:
• It's one of the strongest predictors of aerobic fitness
• Trained athletes typically score higher than sedentary people
• Even small improvements signal real fitness gains
• Personal heart-rate training zones are calculated from your VO2 max
For runners, cyclists, and endurance athletes: VO2 max training is the gold standard. Knowing your real number (not a watch estimate) means training against precision, not guesswork.
The VO2 Max Test Experience
Test Duration
8–15 minutes of effort
Personal Zones
Z1–Z5 heart-rate zones
Staff Monitored
Stop anytime
What happens: You wear a comfortable mask connected to a portable analyzer and start on a treadmill or stationary bike at an easy pace. Intensity gradually increases every minute. You continue until you reach maximum effort (usually 8–15 minutes). Results show your VO2 max plus personalized heart-rate training zones.
It's safe: Medical-grade equipment. Staff monitors you throughout. Stop anytime if needed.
Your heart-rate zones: Once we know your VO2 max, we calculate Zone 2 (endurance), Zone 3 (tempo), Zone 4 (threshold), and Zone 5 (max) specifically for your body — not generic watch estimates.
Who Gets a VO2 Max Test
Why Watch VO2 Max Estimates Can Be Way Off
Your Smartwatch / Garmin
On your wrist
✕ Estimates VO2 max from heart rate and pace
✕ Can be off by 10–25%
✕ Changes daily based on recovery, hydration, stress
✕ Useful trend data, not a measurement
Lab VO2 Max Test
At Belmar
✓ Measures actual oxygen consumption directly
✓ Accuracy: ±2–5%
✓ Stable number (doesn't fluctuate daily)
✓ Establishes true fitness level and training zones
Frequently asked questions
VO2 Max Test — One Price, No Membership
How to book
Book through the Belmar dashboard
Mon–Fri 8am–5pm · Sat–Sun 8am–3pm
What You Get After Your VO2 Max Test
Your VO2 Max Score
Measured, not estimated.
Five Training Zones
Calculated for your specific fitness level.
Percentile Rank
How you compare to your age and gender.
Training Guidance
Zone-specific guidance for aerobic training.
Saved in the App
Track and compare your results across years in the Belmar app.
Use your zones: Program your watch or Garmin with your real zones. Training becomes precise.
