VO2 Max Testing
Get the Most Out of Your Workout
Each person has optimal training zones. Exercise equipment and charts that indicate your target heart rates are actually just averages based on age and weight. We will measure your precise target heart rate based on anaerobic threshold, and calculate your unique Target Intensity Zones. These Zones give you the precise heart rates necessary to optimize each level of exercise and maximize your results. With Target Intensity Zones, you’ll work out smarter, not harder!
For more information please contact us by email info@outbackpt.com or phone (617) 718-9300
Decrease Fatigue and Injury
Frequently we push ourselves thinking, “no pain, no gain.” The truth is, pushing beyond one’s optimal training zone leads to fatigue and discomfort. It will also cause increased soreness after the workout and may contribute to exercise related injury. When you know your zones and use them for training, cardiovascular exercise is comfortable. Even a beginner can go the distance!
Burn more!
VO2 testing reveals the exercise level that will optimize a person’s ability to burn fat. The term “aerobic exercise” has been commonly used in relation to burning fat. But without VO2 testing, fitness professionals have had to rely on crude estimates to determine what level of exercise intensity would be “aerobic” or fat burning. Now, with Outback PT’s VO2 testing readily available, you can know the precise level of intensity that will truly maximize the amount of fat you burn.
How Is A VO2 Test Performed? (It’s as easy as 1-2-3!)
- Put on a heart rate strap and face mask. The mask is connected to the CardioCoach device.
- Begin to exercise on a treadmill or cycle. Your doctor of physical therapy will instruct you to gradually increase your intensity over a period of 6 to 20 minutes.
- The CardioCoach will indicate when the test is completed. You can cool down while your Target Intensity Zones are calculated and printed in a simple, insightful report and then interpreted by your doctor of physical therapy.
Metabolic Testing - Resting Metabolic Rate
Why Test your Metabolic Rate?
Metabolism is the process of converting food (calories) into energy. The efficiency with which your body does this is referred to as your metabolic rate. Many factors affect a person’s metabolic rate: weight, age, body composition, hormone levels, and gender making it a highly unique number.
Understanding your body’s unique metabolic rate will allow your practitioner to customize your weight loss, maintenance or training program around your needs. (1) It can screen for a slowed metabolism that may explain frustrated attempts to lose weight in the past. (2) It can reveal changes in your metabolism during the weight loss process that can help trouble shoot a frustrating plateau. (3) Once you reach your goal, an RMR measurement can give you the precise caloric prescription for maintenance to help you sustain that goal weight. How does the test work?
We use KORR Metabolic Analyzers which utilize the same technology as ICU metabolic testing. Because every calorie a person consumes requires a fixed amount of oxygen to be converted to energy, the KORR Analyzer measures the oxygen you consume to calculate calories burned. All of the air exhaled by the patient must be collected to measure oxygen consumption. Two one-way valves in the KORR MetaBreather ensure that only fresh air is inhaled and all exhaled gas passes through the hose and into the machine. A nose-clip ensures that all exhaled air is analyzed.
We use KORR Metabolic Analyzers which utilize the same technology as ICU metabolic testing. Because every calorie a person consumes requires a fixed amount of oxygen to be converted to energy, the KORR Analyzer measures the oxygen you consume to calculate calories burned. All of the air exhaled by the patient must be collected to measure oxygen consumption. Two one-way valves in the KORR MetaBreather ensure that only fresh air is inhaled and all exhaled gas passes through the hose and into the machine. A nose-clip ensures that all exhaled air is analyzed.
What is a Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) Test?
Preparing for the Test
In order to get the most accurate results, it is important to follow the standard protocol for a Resting Metabolic Rate test:
- You should avoid eating 4 hours before the test.
- Avoid exercising prior to your test.
- If possible, avoid the use of stimulants such as caffeine.
During the Test
During the test you will be invited to sit or recline in a comfortable position. You will be given a KORR MetaBreather mouthpiece to breathe in to. You will be breathing in air from the room, but the gas that you breathe out will go into the metabolic analyzer to measure your metabolic rate.
- Relax and close your eyes during the test.
- Keep lips sealed lightly around the MetaBreather. It is important that all the air you breathe out is analyzed.
- In just 10 minutes, your metabolic rate will be measured!
Check out this video to view the process of metabolic testing!
Want a deeper dive into the science of VO2 Max testing?
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