What is the difference between a Max and Sub Max VO2 assessment.

A **Sub-Max VO2** and **Max VO2** assessment both measure aerobic capacity, but they differ in terms of intensity, accuracy, and applicability.

Max VO2 Assessment

*Purpose**: Measures the maximum oxygen your body can utilize during intense exercise.
*Intensity**: Maximal effort, requiring participants to push to exhaustion.
*Procedure**: Involves progressively increasing exercise intensity while directly measuring oxygen consumption.
*Who it’s for**: Athletes and highly fit individuals.
*Accuracy**: Direct and highly accurate.
*Risks**: High intensity, requires professional supervision and specialised equipment.

Sub-Max VO2 Assessment

*Purpose**: Estimates VO2 max based on sub-maximal effort.
*Intensity**: Sub-maximal, typically 70-85% of maximum heart rate.
*Procedure**: Uses heart rate and workload to estimate VO2 max without pushing to exhaustion.
*Who it’s for**: General population, beginners, or those with health conditions.
*Accuracy**: Less precise but safer and easier to conduct.
*Risks**: Lower intensity, minimal risk.

Both tests assess aerobic fitness but serve different needs: **Max VO2** is best for high-precision in athletes, while **Sub-Max VO2** is ideal for safer, practical fitness assessments.