{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"","title":"Why Your VO2 Max Doesn’t Predict Race Results","description":"

VO2 max is often called the gold standard of aerobic fitness — but does it really determine how fast you can run?


In this episode of Run Smarter with Coach Justin, we break down what VO2 max actually means, how it’s measured, why it declines with age, and why it’s often overrated — especially for masters runners.


You’ll learn:


• What VO2 max really measures

• Why it drops 5–15% per decade after 30

• Why many athletes never truly “hit” VO2 max in testing

• The difference between VO2 max and lactate threshold

• Why running economy is often more important for performance

• The truth about fat-burning zones and exercise intensity


We also explore why two athletes with identical VO2 max values can perform very differently — and why improving efficiency, threshold, and durability may matter far more than chasing a higher oxygen number.


If you’re over 40 and want to train smarter, improve performance, and understand what truly drives endurance success, this episode will change how you think about fitness testing.


Train smart. Stay durable. Run strong.


","author_name":"Justin Hill"}