Ever heard the better you breathe, the more you live? Well, this concept applies here. VO₂ Max measures the maximum amount of oxygen the body uses during intense exercise, which is a strong indicator of cardiovascular fitness and overall endurance. Unlike other biomarkers, this is not measured with a simple blood test, but through intense exercise in clinical or athletic setting.
Why: A higher VO₂ max is consistently associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality. In fact, it’s one of the most reliable predictors of longevity. You can improve your VO₂ max through consistent aerobic training like walking, running, cycling, or swimming. Even small gains in fitness can have huge impacts on health and lifespan.