The test involves either exercising on a treadmill or a bike while wearing a face mask at an intensity that increases every few minutes until exhaustion, and is designed to achieve a maximal effort. We can directly measure the volume and gas concentrations of inspired and expired air. We also obtain the individual’s maximal heart rate from this test, which, along with resting heart rate, can be used to develop a more precise target heart rate range.

Thus, the subject leaves the lab with an excellent idea of his/her current fitness level, how to use this information to improve fitness and a number they can compare to their favorite athletes.