The maximum oxygen consumption or VO2max is the maximum amount of oxygen the body can collect, transport and use per unit of time at a maximum dynamic aerobic exercise. It is usually expressed in liters of oxygen per minute (L / min) or related o the body mass unit and then expressed in mL / min / kg.
The maximum oxygen consumption is indicated for the divers in order to assess their level of aerobic conditioning. This test can be an excellent indicator of the potential performance in endurance situations. Higher values of oxygen consumption indicate a good performance.
Standards are available for each category of divers and the candidate can be cleared or not based on these standards.
The measurement of the maximum oxygen consumption is perfromed either by direct analysis of respiratory gases or indirectly. This is actually a stress test.
Several protocols are available either on a treadmill or a bicycle. The candidate is asked to make a gradually increasing effort in steps of 2 to 3 minutes until he reaches his maximum calculated heart rate ( 220-age (years)).
As any exercise test, the candidate should bring a sports clothing. He should eat, at least two hours before the test. Excitants and smoking are prohibited in the two hours before the test.
