Exercise Physiology: Theory and Application to Fitness and Performance 9th Edition by Scott Powers, Edward Howley

Exercise 8

Describe the changes in muscle structure that are responsible for the increase in the maximal a-v O₂ difference with endurance training.

Step 1 of 2

Maximal oxygen uptake or VO₂ max is the measure of the body’s capacity to use oxygen during exercise. The VO₂ max of an untrained person is relatively lower compared to a trained athlete. Several factors contribute to this increase in VO₂ max in trained individuals. The most important of these factors are cardiac output and a-O₂ difference (arteriovenous oxygen difference).