Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our fitness testing services
What is VO₂ max testing?
VO₂ max testing measures the maximum amount of oxygen your body can use during intense exercise. It's the gold standard for measuring aerobic fitness and cardiovascular endurance. The test involves exercising on a treadmill or bike while wearing a mask that measures your oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production.
How long does a VO₂ max test take?
A complete VO₂ max test typically takes 45-60 minutes, including setup, warm-up, the actual test (10-15 minutes), and cool-down. The test progressively increases in intensity until you reach exhaustion.
What is RMR (Resting Metabolic Rate) testing?
RMR testing measures how many calories your body burns at rest. This test helps create personalized nutrition plans by determining your baseline calorie needs. You'll breathe into a mask for 10-15 minutes while sitting in a chair in a relaxed state.
How should I prepare for my test?
For VO₂ max testing: Fast for 3-4 hours, avoid caffeine 4 hours prior, and avoid intense exercise 24 hours before. For RMR testing: Fast for 4-5 hours, avoid caffeine and exercise, and arrive rested. Wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes for both tests.
Who should get VO₂ max testing?
VO₂ max testing is beneficial for athletes training for events, fitness enthusiasts wanting to optimize their training, people starting a new fitness program, and anyone wanting to track their cardiovascular fitness objectively.
How accurate are the results?
Our professional-grade equipment provides laboratory-quality results with high accuracy (±2-3% margin of error). We use industry-standard protocols and certified equipment to ensure reliable, reproducible results.
What do I receive after my test?
You'll receive a comprehensive report including your test results, personalized training zones, comparison to age/gender norms, and specific recommendations for improving your fitness or achieving your goals.
Can I do both VO₂ max and RMR testing in one visit?
Yes! We can schedule both tests in a single session. The RMR test should be done first while you're rested, followed by the VO₂ max test. Plan for approximately 90 minutes total.
How often should I retest?
We recommend retesting every 8-12 weeks to track progress and adjust your training zones. This timeline allows enough time for measurable improvements while keeping you updated on your fitness trajectory.
Do you accept insurance?
We do not directly bill insurance, but we can provide a detailed receipt that you may submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement if your plan covers fitness assessments or metabolic testing.
Still have questions?
We're here to help! Contact us at 831-400-9227 or email info@fitevals.com
Book Your Test