V: VO2max
VO2max is a measure of aerobic fitness. Aerobic fitness can be defined as the ability to take in, transport and utilise oxygen to produce energy.
Our aerobic fitness can be improved with regular running, swimming, cycling and even brisk walking, especially up hills! We are lucky enough to have the downs on our doorstep so we have our very own outdoor gym which we can use anytime!
As we age, our VO2max declines. This can be linked to our tendency to become more sedentary after the age of about 30. Aerobic capacity declines by about 10 percent per decade between the ages of 25 and 65. This happens slowly at first but the long term effects of inactivity really begin to show after the age of 60.
This rate of decline cannot be stopped entirely but it can certainly be slowed down. Regular aerobic exercise and regular physical activity can delay the normal ageing process by 10 – 20 years. Good luck going up those hills on the downs!