VO2 Max Accuracy in Smartwatches TESTED! (Apple Watch, Garmin, Polar, COROS, Suunto, and More!)

[@tritonfit]

I've done VO2 max lab testing a handful of times (a few times each year over the past 3ish years) and each time the results are bang on with my Garmin Fenix watch.

[@indonesiaamerica7050]

Garmin VO2Max is more accurate for people using cycling power meters rather than from running or any other activity where power metrics/estimates are less precise.

[@sugonmaballs]

​@@indonesiaamerica7050 I've been more of a runner until recently (been doing bike events now) and my last lab test put me at 55 V02 max while my Venu 2 showed 53.. then what'd ya know my next run or two after that my watch updated me to 55, lol.

[@indonesiaamerica7050]

@@sugonmaballs The reason the updates are delayed is that the algorithms wait for recovery HR data (subsequent workouts and even better if you have 24/7 HR data). Some of the earlier watches updated the estimates with each session and people got tired of it because they expect this value to be relatively stable. A VO2Max test can get an accurate test of your maximum oxygen uptake for that test session. For professional athletes it is relatively stable because their exercise regimes are also relatively stable. The ramps tests are even scheduled at similar phases of their season. Also, the ramp test itself can lead to better fitness once you recover. Ramp tests were originally developed for cardiologists and the first MD to use this on a professional cyclist to plan "training zones" that I have ever heard of was Dr. Francesco Conconi. He modified the ramp test to calculate a narrow HR training zone for Francesco Moser in the early 1980s. When Moser trained for the World Hour Record he was doing Conconi's "sweet spot" intensity for 20 minutes on 3 times and I think they varied the "rest" intervals in between.

[@sirclemeni1]

​@@indonesiaamerica7050i had a spiroergometry a couple weeks ago which tested me at 60ml/kg/min and my garmin says 50🥴

[@indonesiaamerica7050]

@@sirclemeni1 Check the Max HR recorded on your Garmin and see if it differs from the lab-tested value. If Max HR is underestimated in the Garmin it will effect your score because it assumes that you're working harder as a percentage of your max than you might actually be. Especially if you have a difference like that.

[@Ephie_S]

My curent Vo2max is 50. A year ago I reached 53... I use Garmin Fenix 6x and I can say that I am in high shape and I have never been in a lab. I was really glad to see your video, it verified the numbers for me. By the way I am 63 yers old. Thanks for the video😂

[@IbrahimIceCold]

Mine only 35. And I'm25 😭 and my bmi is normal though

[@_J.F_]

I agree that unless you are a pro athlete, or just very detail orientated in the way you go about your fitness data, then it doesn't really matter too much how accurate the VO2 Max of your wearable is, as long as it is consistent. What I mean is that most of us probably only use VO2 Max as an indicator if our training is fruitful, meaning VO2 Max growing over time, and for that it doesn't really matter how accurate it is calibrated. The problem might of course be that if your watch is not well calibrated then chances are that it isn't very consistent either, but if you can longer and faster over time then you are probably doing something right 😄

[@MiccaPhone]

Bad calibration does not imply bad consistency. These are entirely different things. Think of a thermometer where you lost the scale. To calibrate it, you'd need at leat two data points (i e. temperatures). But even without any such calibration, your thermometer will be perfectly consistent.

[@_J.F_]

@@MiccaPhone I never implied that bad calibration meant bad consistency. In fact quite the opposite, saying that as long as it is constant it does not matter too much if it is well calibrated or not. What I did imply was that a watch that was not calibrated very well might not be consistent either, or in other words that you very often get what you pay for and the higher accuracy, calibration and consistency usually comes with a higher price tag too. Then add the limitations as to what can be fitted into a watch and of course the fact that serious and pro athletes do not use a watch as their primary data source, but strap into proper scientific lab equipment to get the most accurate data.

[@matthewdray83]

@@MiccaPhone unlike the thermometer Garmin and others do not measure VO2 max directly, it is estimated from HR variability and your physiological data, weight age etc. But having said that if it tells you VO2 Max has improved then it probably has so what it tells you is relative. The problem actually is that the reading is not reliable because HR and its variability are affected by other things which are not measured and compensated for. For example your core temperature affects HR so does your metabolism.

[@retardno002]

Yes, like all relative measurements, precision trumps accuracy

[@y.g.1313]

Here is counterpoint: if you collect inaccurate data over time, then an upgrade happens, new watch or new algorithm in the software - boom.. all your collected data going to garbage, or you will need to do retroactive adjustment. It happened to me with my old weight scale, which had ~4 lb inaccuracy, I had to retroactively adjust my thinking about my weight going back for years, lol.

[@rene9582]

My VO2Max was 59 before I contracted Covid. When I picked up running again after 2,5 weeks my VO2Max had dropped to 54. It took quite some months to reach the 59 again. Now, exactly 2 years later I am at 62. I have a Garmin 255.

[@RidingBikes07]

How do you like the 255? I’m seriously considering it…

[@zolika84]

I don`t know about before the covid, but after a bicycle accident, then the second lockdown, then catching the covid, which progressed into long covid, mine was 26 in the beginning of January. By end of April I managed to reach 42, so still long way to go

[@AM-bl2cs]

Mine was 51, I got covid in feb 2023 for the first time, and that seem week I crashed my bike seriously, and broke my clavicle and 4 ribs, and messed my hip up. I only took 2 weeks off exercise, I was back on my indoor trainer after two weeks, but now two months later my V02 max has basically flatlined around 42. I feel super strong on the bike, and I'm competitive in C grade races on Zwift, but my VO2 max just won't increase. So idk if it was covid, the crash and subsequent surgery, or a combination of both.

[@mendez31971]

how does telling us about yourself add value or more info to this video

[@y.g.1313]

​@@AM-bl2csassuming that you tested the vo2max exactly the same way, all you need is more patience because full body recovery after serious accident takes way more than 2 weeks. You should keep testing and exercising for at least 90 days and see the progression back to 51.

[@KomengDeBatiste]

Wow, thanks. The algorithms have improved! I'm actively using my Polar now, but I've noticed my Suunto consistently indicates the lowest VO²Max amongst my watches.

[@yuanyuanintaiwan]

I would say what matters more than the vo2max absolute value is the vo2max changes through training. Even if it’s incorrect, it may be useful to see how it changes when training. Last year i was running every day for a month, my vo2max did a +4, which was great 😊

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Agreed, even if the value isn't accurate it's nice to see improvements!

[@pmarkiewicz]

I am 57 and started a 6 month intensive cycling training program back in October 2021. At the end of the training program, I reached a TSS of about 980/week. According to Garmin, my VO2Max increased from 48 at the beginning of the training program to 53 at the end. What I also find interesting is that the baseline of 48 was stable for several years when I was typically cycling 3-4 times a week throughout the year. However, this spring it took me about 6 weeks of intense training to get my VO2Max back up from 48 to 52.

[@joerenner8334]

Yes. The number just has to be repeatable. Like using a power meter on my bike. I dont care if it is 2% non accurrate. Meaningless. And my scale too. Hopefully it isnt accurate either!

[@rubarb1275]

Really pleased that a bunch of watches had a very accurate score, especially as they are only estimating based on the metrics they collect!

[@harveyscottz]

Answer: Quantified Scientist

[@davidjuson5608]

Thanks for the video. At my age, 71, and standard of athleticism, which is at best modest for my age, I have considered it an expensive overindulgence to go to a lab to have my VO2 Max calculated and have relied on my Garmin Forerunner 245. However, I pushed my score up to 46 from 44 late last year and was surprised to see it raise to 47 last month. I suspected my trusty watch might be flattering me: apparently not. Pheeeew!

[@gizamaluke]

Very nice video, thank you! I only own a Fenix 7 so I can only speak for Garmin, but there are actually two different VO2Max scores, one for running and one for biking. I believe you compared the one for running (since the running icon was shown above) to a biking activity at the test lab. Would be interested if your biking VO2Max is 51 as well on Garmin Connect. Being a runner primarily I know that those values can differ vastly .

[@stevemurray710]

Fenix 5s, yes 2 scores at least. my cycling vo2 max is 5 higher than running. Big difference especially cause I'm old.

[@jonathonmcmillan9410]

My Garmin running and cycling VO2max are consistently within 2 counts. I do both regularly.

[@robertbellamy7866]

I only done VO2 on my Garmin and it’s a 68 as a upcoming college runner for a njcaa D1 school.

[@hornsteinhof7592]

Interesting video! My vo2max for running was at 62 during college and hovered around 60 afterwards. In 2019, I got bitten by a tick and infected with meningitis. My vo2max fell to 41 over a few months, because I couldn't move a lot and my left leg was paralyzed. Now I'm at 52 again and it's still climbing every few weeks. My values with a Fitbit and Garmin were consistent with the cooper test results, polar resting fitness test tends to give me higher scores

[@RootsOfEden911]

Citrobacter Freundi is the bacteria responsible for meningitis. I have a gut infection from it and I'm Siga Deficient (and I assume you most likely are as well as ppl with a good immune system can fight it off). How did you beat it?

[@Neilveg]

Just switched to a Garmin 965 from a Polar Grit and I find the HR readings very similar on both. I’ve been using the Garmin for 16 days and it gives me a VO2 max of 50. Polar gives me only 36 Vo2 max but on Polar running index on my daily running Polar give’s around 60-65. I’m 68 and first used the Polar HRM over 30 years ago and would say HR varies a lot from person to person so Vo2 max is the same. You can’t really judge yourself against other runners using this data. The quicker runners generally have lower HR but it’s not always the case.

[@northernlightay]

Hi, may i know how long to get the vo2max data with garmin?

[@Between2aidstations]

Interesting! I just did a vo2max lab test with a score of 51 as well. Garmin gives me a 50, so pretty accurate. Been using a Fenix 7 for over a year now.

[@someguyusa]

I'm 34 years old, regularly strength train (I used to run, but had to stop for a long time due to injuries), and my Fenix 7 said I had a vo2 max of 35. Then I started heart rate zone 2 training for a couple weeks now, and it said my vo2 max decreased to 34 lol. I guess I'll keep training though because I can't do a light jog without my heart rate increasing to like 184bpm even though I can sustain it for several minutes without issue. That shouldn't be possible since that's a max effort heart rate zone, but it's like that every single time I try to jog. I've just been doing treadmill incline walking to keep my HR in the correct zone, and hopefully it'll improve things over time. I suspect this is the result of covid because, not that I ever tracked it, but I never had aerobic fitness issues pre-covid, but who knows?

[@indonesiaamerica7050]

@@someguyusa The short version of the story is that you went through a period of detraining and now you need to follow "base building" doctrines like keeping your HR in the conservatives zones so that you can do the hours at low intensity first and watch your HR data start to improve without stressing yourself too much. It seems like you're doing that anyway but you should follow "coming out of off season" (or illness) style base training. These patterns are totally normal. And viruses do stress athletes in this way especially if you're forced to reduce your activity levels for more than a few days.

[@Jim-be8sj]

Great video. I'm surprised at how well the watches estimated the number. I run with a Garmin Forerunner 245 and have identified some weaknesses it its algorithm. The effects of altitude and steepness of terrain cause a variance in its estimation. I do most of my running on steep hills at an altitude of 1500 meters and the V02 max is usually 45. If I go up into the higher mountains and do similar run at 3000 meters elevation, the next day my watch will say the V02 max is 43. Or, if stay at 1500 meters and run faster on a smooth, flat trail, the V02 max will go up to 47 or 48

[@y.g.1313]

Good point, I estimate people can find between 10 to 15 variables that can affect accuracy. Next question is: does lab test have similar weaknesses?

[@FJDIAZ]

Amazing video showing this! I've always wondered if it was accurate but the results are impressive, looking forward to your follow up video in the future.

[@jrnmayntzhusen553]

My Garmin Fenix number also matches the real VO2 max test I had. The real interesting detail however is the fat burning percentage that came from the real test. In my youth I ran 5 marathons within 5 years the same way. I had no clou on fat burning versus carb burning. So I ran straight all out for 2 hours and something, and ran straight into "the wall". From there the last 17-20 km of the marathon were 100 meters of walking followed by 500 meters of slow jogging and then down to walking again. Now 26 years later I'll be running a marathon again next sunday planning/hoping/praying to beat my old personal record because of the knowledge of 1) my fat burning at lowever intensities, 2) my inability of taking in carbs whilst running. I have to stretch my blood sugar reserves to last for the whole marathon. Wish me luck :-)

[@patrikfloding7985]

Good luck! If you are in ketosis you don't need glucose in the blood stream. So perhaps go for that?

[@testymctestface95]

Dave, for Polar you should have looked at its moving average in Polar Flow, not only a VO2max from a single run. VO2max estimates can substantially deviate between runs. I see that in Runalzye, where my VO2max estimates range between 49 and 53 betwen runs, depending if I have a good day, I do tempo runs or if it is too warm

[@ChaseTheSummit]

For sure, the point I was trying to make is that most of the values I have in Polar Flow are wildly different and none of them are close to the lab test. VO2 Max is an absolute number so I’m not sure why Polar has like 5 different numbers and tests. Thanks for watching.

[@steveforde7475]

@@ChaseTheSummit it mght be worth trying the running test, if it's available on the Polar watch you have.

[@filipsvacha]

My friend did a study for his masters, for exactly this question. He had 8 guys that run with Garmins, had them lab tested and the results were pretty much the same. I think the more popular companies (garmin, chronos, apple) are more acurrate, because they have bigger datasets from their users. But as it was already said, VO2Max is just a number, it depends how well can you put your fitness in use.

[@MrAstygmatyk]

Turns out, to estimate your VO2 Max you really don't need a smartwatch. You'd do just as well with VO2 max formulas those watching are using and without the expense to acquire those gadgets. Now, my point is not to dismiss them, as they're quite useful to measure something they actually have built-in sensors for.

[@MrAstygmatyk]

Main thing is.....keep running. Don't ever stop.

[@toby9999]

​@@MrAstygmatyk I stopped 35 years ago :(

[@chriscarpunky]

I’m 55 and my Garmin is always at 42 for years. For a while it was 43 so it bounces back and forth and puts me in the top 30-35 percent for my age. However, for years my Apple puts me at below average of around 32. They are wildly different for me. I also use a chest strap.

[@TenantRepGuru]

Very helpful. Before this video I doubted and did not use the VO2 Max on my Garmin. Now I will certainly use it. Thx

[@NGCB01]

Your V02 max is exercise specific as the type/amount of muscle mass utilisation differs. Something to keep in mind when trying to validate your v02 max measurements

[@pia31415]

This... VO2 (Max) is a way to estimate the efficiency of the Oxygen delivery chain in the body, from Gas inhaled to oxygen delivered at the muscles for exertion. Ofc it will vary depending on which muscle groups are being involved.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I did ask about this at the lab and was told they use the Assault Bike as a way to mitigate the differences between Running and Cycling VO2 Max since both hands and arm muscles are used for the exercise. But yeah, I agree there's probably a difference and I would certainly be more comfortable on a treadmill... Next time!

[@richhowell6874]

I ran Zone 2 today and my VO2 max was 2.5 points lower (Apple Health) than the other day when I'd done both Zone 2 and intervals. Will a slow workout give a lower reading? Do I really have to bust it to find out my best VO2 max. At age 77, even my intervals only shoot for about 85% of max.

[@jameschenoweth391]

Great job! Thank you. I work as a Health and Wellness coach, and was curious about this exact topic, being a Garmin Instinct 2 owner.

[@JohnMacKenzie-ru5sj]

I had a huge discrepancy. I just had a lab test that came in at 75.3 and my Apple Watch says 52.7. I actually quested the trainer and they said that the watch can’t give you the picture of what is happening in the lungs. I really haven’t been training and got the test to get a baseline… Was not expecting something that high. I rescheduled a test for the end of the summer to check in, so I guess we will see.

[@NoxDineen]

I haven’t done a lab test but similar to you my Apple Watch estimates VO2 max that is ~10 below what Garmin and Polar give me.

[@pleasan7ly]

Same here, lab test came at 96.1 and my AW says 79.5

[@Klennexus]

@@pleasan7lythen ur Lab is broken, the best test ever recorded was 97.5 the second best 96

[@pleasan7ly]

@@Klennexus sorry i had a number twister. I mean 91.6, but still quite a big gap to the AW.

[@Klennexus]

@@pleasan7ly are you a top level athlete? Marathon 2:10 or smith like that? Because these numbers are insane

[@alexnice9847]

Thumbs up. I am in the 40-49 bracket and my vo2 max, according to Garmin, is 56 and my physical age is 20! Never had the curiosity to check that metric until now, thanks for your interesting explanations.

[@IbrahimIceCold]

Mine is only 35.. I'm25

[@asmith7746]

My Garmin Forerunner 935 says my VO2 max is 45 to 48. I was just tested at a lab at a 53.7 VO2 max. I ignore alot of what my watch tells me. It often says I'm unproductive because of VO2 max drops. I run ultras, so I run zone 2 most of the time. My VO2 max goes up after my hill/speed workout day and drops after several easy runs. I work a crazy schedule, so I often have to move workouts forward or back a day or two and swap runs. I still get my miles, but Garmin is guessing metrics based off a 70 mile week and a 30 mile week.

[@Halv_Turken]

before i even start the video im gonna say this.. this is so nice with a video like this you help me choose what watch i should buy thank you

[@pochesie1945]

Very interesting video! I have never tested my VO2 max in a lab before since I have only been running consistently for about a year. However I recently changed from an Apple Watch SE to a Garmin fenix 7S Pro and the difference in numbers baffled me. My apple watch had been giving me 39 (although that did not seem super reliable anyways because the number would sometimes decrease even though I was still running consistently). The Garmin however immediately placed me at 46 after my first and 47 after my second run. Since the 5k and 10k prediction seems pretty accurate to me I am choosing to believe the Garmin haha

[@tommyharris5817]

I have done VO2 max lab test with score of 49, but my Garmin woefully overestimated it at 57! Stick to a lab for accuracy.

[@williamstevenson2649]

Greetings from the UK! Excellent idea for a video, and the first I've seen like this. Very impressive and useful, and I was very surprised at the agreement between the lab value and Garmin, Apple etc. estimates. Even the ones from the not-so-good camp were closer than I would have expected, so it seems that the VO2 Max is, after all, a useful metric! Even The Quantified Scientist and DCR haven't done a comparison like this, as far as I know. Thanks

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Glad you found it useful!

[@williamstevenson2649]

@@ChaseTheSummit The follow-up later in the year will be even more useful!

[@sandiegojoey1]

I got the same results when I was tested, very close to what my Garmin showed. There's a company in San Diego called Body Comp, they do V02max testing and also DEXA scans, and not too expensive. And while the V02max was pretty accurate, the Garmin Index S2 smart scale is nowhere near accurate, in fact every bio impedance scale is going to be off by a mile, but they're useful directionally relative to you. I have noticed one flaw in the software algorithm type V02 estimates. In the "off season" when I'm training in Zone 2 and focusing more on building a base, my V02 score will plummet because pace is an important metric in the calculation. I think Garmin and others could easily fix this by creating a V02 workout widget that takes us through a V02 test and overrides the current setting. Another thing I wish Garmin would do is to allow us to save/record recovery after a hard training session. Why give us this option post workout but not save it to the workout as a measurement, or perhaps even factor it into the V02max formula. For example, I might do an interval workout where I'm doing 1000 meter max efforts with 90 seconds of burpees x 8, this will max out my HR for almost an hour, I always hit the recovery afterwards, before saving, but the recovery score doesn't get recorded....why?

[@staticpurge]

It annoys me that Garmin doesn’t utilize the recovery time, considering all the metrics they throw at the wall to sell as “useful” and yet…no saved recovery time. It is actually saved in the data file (for example I can see it in my linked Apple Health). But really, I’d rather have that 2min recovery HR in Connect, and on a graph over time, etc. In garmin forums people have asked for it going back 7+ years, but garmin is crickets for what ever reason.

[@indonesiaamerica7050]

@@staticpurge Just create a "recovery lap" at the end of your recorded activity session and that is available to you and the algorithms. Once the "activity" session ends there is less data to record and it becomes less reliable. The algorithms factor in all fluctuations. The part that is weighted the least is warm up phase and you know how it tracks that by tracking the "performance condition" rating.

[@reiniertje1055]

Great video, nice channel. A few additional remarks on VO2max: 1. Body weight is a parameter that influences VO2max (mL / kg / min). 2. The way VO2max is measured (e.g. running cycling) may also have a (significant) effect on the result depending on which of these sports you exercise more. 3. As you get older it will slowly get worse... so just enjoy the ride/run, and forget about performance!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks! I do mention body weight in this video being a factor.

[@reiniertje1055]

@@ChaseTheSummit Yes you did, but it might be good to emphasize this as you have to enter your correct weight in the watch (manually or with a linked weighing scale). People like me forget to keep it updated regularly (my weight has varied 20 kg over the last 15 years...) , thus getting an incorrect VO2max measurement from the watch, which is not related to the algorithm of the watch, but due to erroneous weight input. I don't know the exact mathematics on VO2max, but a deviation of one or 2 kg in weight might actually cause a deviation in VO2max of several points. Or like in my case I went from a VO2max of 67 (lab measurement, weight 75kg) to 47 (garmin watch, weight 95kg). I would say that for any watch, given the variance in the input, deviation of plus or minus 3 points is very acceptable.

[@zarm783]

Very good presentation. Also I am biased and use a Garmin watch. I had a lab test, but I confess, being claustrophobic, I had a very difficult time completing it and my results were not conclusive. (A pity, because yes, one does suffer with this horribly strangulating mask on one's face and my suffering was not rewarded). Garmin results did seem to be accurate given my age and training regimen. VO2 max remains static, so I imagine I must have to crank up my effort to raise it a point or two.

[@fitgearhunter]

This is great! Funny I just had my first DEXA scan yesterday as well! Using it to compare results scale for review soon. And question, wouldn't V02 max relate primarily differently teach activity type? Like wouldn't running V02 max be different from cycling V02 max, and therefore be different from assault bike/air dyne V02 max that you got tested on?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

We got Dexa scanned too! (for another video) From what this particular lab told me is that they chose to use the assault bike because it utilizes all of your limbs and rules out any advantage you might have in terms of running or cycling economy/efficiency. But yes, you're right... generally speaking there will be a difference if you're highly skilled at one activity versus another. On the other hand VO2 Max is an absolute measurement since it's soley related to pushing your heart rate up above the lactic threshold. Thanks for watching Hunter!

[@fitgearhunter]

@@ChaseTheSummit that's great then - that's great that it somewhat rules out particular training modality then!

[@tonybowen455]

@@ChaseTheSummit Makes me want an assault bike.

[@dim3nt0]

It should not depend on activity, since its more related to your body ability to absorb and tranfer oxygen then your muscles. But yeah to be at all able to test this properly you need at least some level of fitnes or your muscles fail before you can measure when pushed hard.

[@microwave0152]

okay, nice vid. But i have a garmin FR 245 and never done a v02 test, it predicts 16:15 race prediction and 67 V02. But I am in low 15 minute 5k shape so I assume my v02 is much higher?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Could be. Or you could just have really good running efficiency. That's a FAST 5K! Congrats!

[@microwave0152]

@@ChaseTheSummit thanks man. I never thought about efficiency. Might have to do a test soon. But my issue is I am never satisfied with my fitness even if I'm fit then I've ever been. So I just keep pushing back races and tests in exchange for more training.

[@CahoonHollow]

Great video. A few comments/observations based on where I am at personally. First, wish I knew more on where Fitbit fell into all of this. I also I have recently gone onto a beta blocker and am trying to figure out my new HR targets. From what I have learned here, I suspect that any smart watch will not help me it getting a reasonable number for my VO2 Max. I am more sure I would want t to do this actual test (I am in the Boston area) out of concerns that it I would push myself too much. I am still trying to figure this out as I am still early into being on the beta blocker. Zone 2 training interests my the most, primarily because of what I have been watching on online content of Peter Attia.

[@mmatja]

Good to know that the watch should be close. The HR zones though seem to be super helpful info, so I might try such a test. Thanks for the cool video!

[@erkutgurun]

Thanks. Which Garmin is the one you tested, which is yours? Make model, etc? Because in the description you've put several. And at the same time which is the cheapest Garmin with Vo2 max. Thanks.

[@MAGAted]

great vid, but for the rest of us, the important thing to understand is whatever your score, and whatever it's consistency with lab testing might be, all you have to do is ensure it's maintained/improved over fairly long time scales

[@doctorprepper8106]

ive just found out I dont any VO2 data besides a few in 2018 when I used an apple watch. My Garmin Fenix registers Vo2 max to garmin connect and syncs every other data to apple health, but for some reason it doesnt write VO2 max

[@samuel.andermatt]

I made a VO2max test. Result 57.6, Garmin said 52.4. I think Garmin might struggle with trail runners. Either that or it is due to me improving quickly in recent month and Garmin being only able to track slower changes.

[@mikg2618]

Tested often myself with Suunto Sports software, and the fat expenditure rises with sets when HR stays on the level possible to continue the activity, from 20% fat in the beginning to 80% after 1.5 -2 hours of outdoor hockey games with many (20) sets. The body burns all the carbs and then recovers and uses mostly fat. That's why low HR is preferable for long-range runners, the body burns fat with low HR./ 65% of MAX HR in my case.

[@daviddadamo2290]

What I suspect is even if the SmartWatch is off a little in absolute value, I bet relative changes are tracked pretty well. If the watch says you’re getting better (or worse) I bet that is probably pretty true. Will be interesting to see your follow up.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

For sure, I think that’s more valuable than absolute accuracy. It’s nice to see things trending up when you’re working hard!

[@andrewcorrie8936]

What are the variables here? The devices measure heart rate, distance moved and time taken. You plug in your age, sex and weight. Then a formula will be used to calculate the VO2max based on that information. I'm supposing the distance and time measurements are all pretty accurate. So are we just comparing the accuracy of the heart rate measurement and the vaildity of the formula used to calculate the VO2 max?

[@ebarr9476]

My iWatch measures low by about 5.5 mL/kg/min from my Vo2 max testing which was performed on my own MTN bike setup in a pro lab. As per Apple's own notes, the iWatch/iPhone only measures the estimated Vo2 max when "walking, hiking or running". Perhaps my low Iphone reading is cuz I'm exclusively cycling and only take the odd walk and never run? A major confound for me. I use to see my Delta over time but can't trust the actual number sadly.

[@cvdavis]

I use a Polar rest test, Garmin 530 computer bike ride results, Strava and Zwift ride results. They are all within 3.5 points on their estimated VO2 for me.

[@mathieugermain8499]

Thx for this. I was wondering that exact same question. Super usefull info

[@jamesraider5366]

video starts at 6:45

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I would argue it starts at 00:00 😂

[@ferencantal708]

Thanks for this great video again. The interesting part of this vo2 max is, my vo2 max is 47, and I used to do sports 3-5 times in a week, but my gfriend`s vo2 max is 50, but she does not used to do sport so often as me. So I don`t really get it. BUT, when we are hiking she is more durable with a higher pulse. Maybe the vo2 max is the main key of her durability. Thanks for all!

[@TheSilentWonder]

I think a good way to look at it is this: the actual vo2max value that your watch reports is irrelevant. It's the change (up or down) that is important as a measure of improvement or not.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I tend to agree. This is the same argument I have for step count accuracy... Who cares if the actual step numbers are accurate? It's more about monitoring your activity level compared to other days. Thanks for tuning in!

[@mmaciek163]

I had Amazfit in the past, right now i have Garmin, both were almost at the same level of 51-52. I didn't test myself in the lab.

[@pablo_elizalde]

I'd be curious to see what the HRV4 Training app showed. I use that and COROS and they are quite different, even tho HRV gets the data from Strava and therefore the COROS watch.

[@EarthSurfer]

I found my fitness trackers / heart rate monitors closely approximated my measured VO2(max) over the decades. In March 2003, my VO2(max) measured was 58.2, and my Polar 720i cycling HRM estimated at 60. In September 2023, I measured 51.3 (age 60), and Apple Watch / Fitness App estimated 50. I consider all VO2(max) measurements to be a “point in time,” and could likely vary 5% or more depending on rest and recent illness. The 2003 stats were part of the “Body of a Backpacker” article in Backpacker magazine, August 2023. A final note: I quit high intensity training for long intervals (15+min) at 52 based on newer studies showing adverse effects on heart rhythms. I still do several 2-5 minute max intervals a week, and I haven’t seen a significant decline in VO2(max) or my max Heart Rate. Also, most of my training is now in Zone 2 with a focus on going longer, not harder. (I’m retired, so I have the time 😆) My body is much happier, too.

[@HedgeFun35]

I always had issues with VO2max with my Suunto 9 Baro. If I'd go for a hike it would crater my VO2, dropping it by sometimes up to10 points. I've not had this happen since I switched to Garmin.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Interesting I believe most platforms ignore hiking and walking activities from VO2 Max calculations. Were you using the "hiking" activity profile?

[@HedgeFun35]

@@ChaseTheSummit Yup, always used the hiking profile on Suunto, it always happened. Asked them about it and was told it was a "known issue"

[@Gowalkabout]

Great video! I wear a Garmin Fenix. But I'm confused about what data it uses to estimate my VO2 max. The owner's manual says the estimate relies upon "movement" data, like running or cycling. But I do not run or cycle for training. My conditioning is, more or less, HIIT training at home. My Garmin estimates my VO2 Max, anyway. I don't understand why since the estimate does not include any running or cycling data. Maybe someone on the thread can help education me. Thanks.

[@TPITEOTG]

I am on keto lifestyle, and it is well known that I can utilize more energy with the same VO amount. It is like burning 87 gas vs. pure ethanol (alcohol).

[@cocotianusergiu6083]

Thanks

[@cocotianusergiu6083]

I did a lab test for VO2 Max - I'm 52 years old and I run 58-60 km/week - I have a VO2 Max -55 lab test, and my Garmin Forerunner 965 is the same - 55

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks for sharing! 💪

[@wss327]

Thanks for the informative video. My Polar fitness result comes in consistently at 5 points over my Apple Watch VO2Max. Looks like based on your findings, I stick with the Apple numbers. Another way, according to some top level coaches, is to use RPE which might be a more accurate way to estimate your training zone as it takes into account all the daily variables and influences.

[@seekdiscomfort4746]

Whats RPE?

[@wss327]

@@seekdiscomfort4746 Rate of Perceived Exertion

[@seekdiscomfort4746]

@w ss oh yes, then I applaud you, you're spot on! My old running coach would call using RPE, common sense training amd it is actually logical and makes complete sense. It's kind of like why at the beginning of hitting your heart rate sone that you're training, in you're RPE is naturally not going to be as high as compared towards the end where your RPE will be extremely high, yet in the same heart rate zone. And of course like you said also includes other factors of the day affecting you're perceived excertion, i.e heat, humidity, elevation, even nutrition, hydration and state of muscle soreness!👍 👍

[@steveouwerkerk7719]

I’m 61, I had my VO2 max tested 5 years ago, a year after I started cycling. I scored 48.5. I’ve since lost 12 lbs and I’m definitely somewhat fitter but my Garmin Fenix always registers between 68-71 consistently. I find that metric hard to believe although I wish it was true.

[@lupsik1]

If you buy a power meter, the results should end up being MUCH more precise if you care about that.

[@CristianMolina]

Thanks for this! Does the type of sport you do affect the metrics of the algorithms? Like, Does it works better for running flat street vs trail running?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

With Garmin in particular most modern watches will generate an estimated VO2 max when running outdoors in the trail and road running activities along with cycling outdoors. However, some only work with road running/cycling. Other brands vary when it comes to VO2 Max.

[@GregoryShimansky]

Samsung just recently (Sep 19 2023) announced that they cooperated with Michigan University to improve accuracy of VO2 Max measurement on their smart watches and new firmware was rolled out for samsung watches. It would really be interesting to see how accurate their results are now.

[@CK8652]

My apple watch VO2 max is very low - 39 for a 39 year old. I don't understand why. I play soccer several times a week and can play the entire game at a strong level. 9 months ago I was ~45 and I've gotten worse and worse even as I'm getting stronger and in better cardio shape. I do not understand it.

[@christiankollai]

Same issue ! Drop from 45 do 36 over a period of 15 mth… no lifestyle change … Apple Watch

[@spou20]

Thanks for the video. How close were your lab test HR zones, to that of your Garmin forerunner please?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

The higher zones were close but Z1 and 2 were way off.

[@BrendanOHara617]

10:11 cool video! How did your heart rate zones from the lab compare to Garmin Connect heart rate zones?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

They were close but zone 1 and 2 were a bit off.

[@yenk82]

This is a very interesting test and thanks for the explanation. I only have a Garmin 55 since almost 3 weeks and it says that my VO2 Max level is "good" (Green 44), I cannot remember if at the beginning of July was worst than this. I use to walk and slow run 3 times per week, almost 10km in total (I'm a beginner). I will keep it in sight

[@UltraTrailSteven]

Very cool. Glad to see the watches are pretty darn accurate

[@AgraPhotoFilm]

On my last running VO2max ( I use both Fr 955 on the left and Watch series 8 on the right), garmin forerunner 955 show 48, and the apple watch only show 42,5...and I'm never go back to Watch on running.

[@DakotahMiskus]

I remember when the Microsoft fitness tracker came out with the Vo2 max estimate and it was a big deal

[@zebgazo6746]

I run since may 2023, i m 46 Garmin Forerunner 55 give 43vo2max Lab testing yesterday 48,6 …

[@anthonyrampino7734]

Which Garmin do you have and can you please recommend a good fitness watch that won’t break the bank? I currently have a Apple Watch 7 and I’m looking for something different. By the way, awesome video! I’ve been trying to find out what v02max is.

[@tridoc99]

I’ve been wondering this for years, thanks! Why is VO2 max different for cycling vs running? Maybe you can touch on that in your next video.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I'm no expert but from what I understand it's the different muscle groups used for different activities and how efficient you are using them. I plan to revisit this with another VO2 max test specifically designed for running soon!

[@KwyjiboVanDeKamp]

Great video as always! Thanks for your efforts Dave!

[@Mariana-kw3tv]

Just to add that for endurance sports (more than 5k) lactate threshold can be a better performance predictor than vo2 max ;)

[@TheN8turley]

Hey, may I ask what watch band is that? The yellowish green one. I would love a link to purchase it! Thanks!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Cheap one from Amazon under the brand name "AnCool"

[@NateTurley]

@@ChaseTheSummit Thank you!

[@TheN8turley]

@@ChaseTheSummit I just ordered one!

[@JeanMarcVANBELLE]

i had 50 some five years ago and went down to 39 now and am 58 years now. Though i feel fine, i think it is because i run and cycle in/on mountains in Bulgaria now and preder to run slowly so i can philosophize a lot and think about… all kind of measurements like VO2MAX etcetera, haha. +je

[@aeriegrove]

I got a VO2Max test last year and scored 69 - I was chuffed to say the least, especially since my Garmin had me at 56-58! I've never been into sport, and only started training more seriously in my early 30s, about 8 years ago. I guess was what is called a slow guy with a high vo2max, but after learning this I've made an effort to train to better utilise this and the gains are coming in thick and fast :D

[@klekaelly]

Holy crap, 69 is really good

[@jeanmartin963]

maybe you are skinny. The real VO2max is in liter by minutes, that is your real cardiovascular ability, but the number people focus on is the liter by minutes by kilogram, as it is not your cardiovacular ability but a predicator of your performance. If you lose weight the first does not move a lot, whereas the second one does.

[@seekdiscomfort4746]

​@jean martin you nailed it it, spot on! I wish more people understood exactly this! Kuddos 😉

[@aeriegrove]

@@jeanmartin963 I'm 5'11 and was 161lbs when tested so pretty average, and measured 5.0 l/min

[@jeanmartin963]

@@aeriegrove Hi, it depends where you live, with a BMI of 22 in most of the countries in the world you are not average. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_sovereign_states_by_body_mass_index And this is the data of 2015, 8 years ago.

[@ebarr9476]

Using Apple Watch to Estimate Cardio Fitness with VO2 max May 2021 Metric Description Cardio fitness on Apple Watch is an estimation of a user’s VO2 max in ml/kg/min, made based on measuring a user’s heart rate response to physical activity. Updates to the algorithm used to estimate VO2 max in watchOS 7 extend estimates to lower ranges of cardio fitness (14 to 60 ml/kg/min) for users with Apple Watch Series 3 or later. A view of VO2 max in the Health app in iOS 14 under Cardio Fitness is shown in figure 1. A VO2 max value may be generated after walking, running, or hiking outdoors on relatively flat ground (that is, a grade of less than 5 percent incline or decline) with adequate GPS, heart rate signal quality, and exertion (an approximate increase of 30 percent of the range from resting heart rate to max). A user’s first such workout won’t generate an estimate, and a user needs to have worn Apple Watch for one day before a first estimate can be generated.

[@patrikfloding7985]

I just have a modest Amazfit GTR 3 Pro. But if the results are consistent, albeit lower than the real value, it would still be usable. On the other hand the speed/lap times will still tell me how thing are going...

[@rkoby42]

So on my Garmin Edge 840 cycling computer i get a VO2 Max so far of 38 which is excellent for a 72 year old guy. However, my Apple Watch says my VO2 Max is 47.8 which is just insane and i do not believe. So i have gotten significant differences here. I believe the Garmin more. I do not know how Apple is coming up with that number. I will add that when measuring with the Garmin I am using a power meter and chest heart rate strap.

[@MrBecksy2]

Interesting vid as I have been wondering about this. My fénix 6 has been showing I have a declining VO2 max which doesn’t make sense as I am getting more fit. Wondering if they had changed the algorithm recently.

[@MichaelNovakx]

Hi, there’s only one major point. You mentioned going to lab test for setting up HR zones, but … in your case is not true as HR zones on watt bike differs significantly from zones for running … runners shall go for runner test on treadmill. There are different muscle groups utilized and on a bike (even watt bike) you will not be able to go up with HR like while running …

[@Canduish]

it depends if you have tattoos? how come? I have a wrist tattoo and have been wearing my Forerunner 45 on that same wrist and after every run I get lower VO2 results (even though I can run pretty ok - average pace - nowhere near the level it says - i believe ... that's interesting to find out - thanks for the info - on my next run I will change the watch on my other hand just for comparison

[@ChaseTheSummit]

The density of the ink can have an effect on accuracy if the tattoo is directly under the heart rate sensor. It may or may not have an effect due to other variables like body fat percentage, how many blood vessels are in the area, how boney your wrist is, etc...

[@Canduish]

@@ChaseTheSummit thanks for the clarification - it is directly under the heart rate and I just thought the sensor might be wrong or smth - I had a higher VO2 in February before starting to run constantly and working out in the gym - so something might be off here - thanks a lot for the explanation - will keep testing

[@pieslice]

Apple Watch Ultra here…. Vo2 max read on it is spotty. Once every few month. And to figure out how to get a reading is so obscure I had to do some digging. 20min of a walk or run activity only.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

It's buried in the health app!

[@pieslice]

I’ll begin the search again

[@eternitylll2384]

This video helped a lot with knowing how accurate my Garmin was. It says I get 59 which is great to know!

[@GeneVilleneuve]

Great video. I am 52 and my Garmin tells me my VO2max is 60. I recently bought a new Garmin and wondered if it may readjust but it came back after a few intense rides with 60 again. As a lifelong endurance athlete I assume the number makes sense as I can keep up with guys half my age in local club rides.

[@alfredome1493]

Try a Hear Rate Chest Strap. It will change all your data compared with the wrist sensor.

[@GeneVilleneuve]

@@alfredome1493 ? I only use a chest strap and have for almost 20 years. What makes you think I didn’t?

[@alfredome1493]

@@GeneVilleneuve Relax man! I was just giving an advice trying to help. I thought you weren't using it for the big difference and you didn't mentioned it. But thanks for opening my eyes, I should keep focusing mind my own business, not trying to help others because people get offended or mad for anything. Peace!

[@GeneVilleneuve]

@@alfredome1493 All good. As I'm a cyclist and use the Edge device I have no choice but to use a chest strap. I think I can pair it with my Garmin watch but I find I can never trust the wrist watch HRM. Sometimes I'll see my Edge computer heart rate at 150 while climbing a hill and look at my watch and the reading is 120. I hear the newer Garmin wrist watches are better and more accurate but I will continue using my chest strap. I completely agree with you that people should use a chest strap. One day I will do an actual VO2max test in a lab.

[@richdiorio3650]

Great video. I'm 70 and my VO2 max is 28, very low. I want to work to increase it. My resting heart rate is 59, walking heart rate is 98. What number do I need to reach with my heart rate and for how long to improve my VO2 Max? Thanks

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I would suggest finding a coach or speaking to a professional. I'm not a coach and I'd hate to give you bad advice! Good luck!

[@shadyyyyVR]

I'm so confused by mine. I'm very active on my bike and Garmin says I have a VO2 max of 44 (I believe it) but apple watch - the device I wear all the time - says mine is very low at 34. I take metoprolol which is a beta blocker drug but I have it recorded in the medicine app and no data points have really changed in the Health app so I'm not sure which data metric to believe 🥴

[@Lasombra08]

Doesn't the Ignite 3 come with a dedicated running test? The Fitness test is just there to get you started. 😃

[@tgilbs]

My Garmin has me at Excellent and my apple watch Series 6 had me only at "Above Average"! I have been using a Polar HR strap consistently for my runs/trail runs. I'm curious enough to consider getting a lab test to nail down those heart rate zones (might be humbling.) I suspect the Apple watch is more accurate, but who knows! It's all for fun.

[@PhotoJohn80]

Does anyone know if the Apple Watch has gotten better? Like I have a series 6 and it’s insanely low. It’s 35 and my lab was 48. I just wonder if the newer Apple Watches are more accurate like it is for this guy? I’d upgrade if so.

[@friedi3212]

Great video! Did the training zones from the lab and the ones from Garmin also match? Greetings from Germany, struggeling to improve my 43 😀

[@ChaseTheSummit]

They were close but a little off

[@swpcs]

Had a few lab tests over last few years . Vo2 from lab test about 3 points lower each time than Garmin on both bike and run but that’s ok .

[@eleftheriazigiri8403]

I was waiting for this for so long!! Great vid!!! So curious to know what is happening with this metric… have been stuck to 50 for months at my garmin and my AWU at the same time gives me 43!!! Weird right??😅

[@NOKIA6031]

I use my coros metrics in combination with runalyze and they are pretty similar (52 for coros, 53 for runalyze). I use them for race prediction times and more or less they are right. I also have the huawei gt runner and its vo2max estimation is way off (62)

[@alanreymercado2665]

can you also compare your hear rate zone from the test vs yhe watches?

[@jonathanblair7323]

Really interesting 6 I've always wondered re my Vo2max using my Garmin Fenix 7, which is currently sitting at 65 - for context I'm 40 and run.

[@koekroeck]

Vo2 max lab tested 64,2. On my fenix 7s 61. So i am satisfied.

[@chaseallan3657]

Awesome video as always. Was always curious how accurate my Garmin Forerunner 955 score was! Super interesting.

[@stevewarshauer1356]

I am a 68 year old cyclist and train a lot on an indoor trainer (also ride outside on road and mountain bike) with Garmin HRM Pro+ chest strap. Last year I rode 9K total miles combined for indoor and outdoor. My Garmin Enduro has constantly shown my VO2 max to be around 57. My Apple Watch Ultra which I often wear when doing high intensity training sessions along with my Garmin shows me at 47.6 consistently. That is a pretty big difference. Any idea which is the more accurate reading? I believe the Garmin is more accurate since I have owned multiple Garmin devices that have all shown my VO2 Max to be somewhere between 54-60 over the past 5 years. Apple has never been as high as even 50 for me. What are your thoughts on this? Great video and great work on all of your video’s as I really enjoy them and recommend you to my friends all the time.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Hard to say, like I said I'm not a scientist I'm just sharing my experience. There are A LOT of variables that play a role in accuracy unfortunately. For your own sanity I'd say go with the higher number! Otherwise... get a lab test!

[@collins735]

I’ve got the same issue with my Apple Watch ultra, my Garmin running has me at 51 and cycling at 60 yet my Apple Watch tells me I’m below average at 42 😂

[@LVArturs]

Do a 12min run test as another data point. You can find the formula online.

[@MyLifeInTheDesert]

My VO2max never recovered post Covid (I have never been able to workout as hard as I did before either. Have no sense of smell years after the infection and two autoimmune diseases. Sadly I just can’t seem to make gains. I was so hoping this video would tell me the Apple Watch is wrong and I’m doing great :(