What a 77-Year-Old Runner Can Teach Us About VO2 Max and Healthy Aging
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to stay fit into your 70s, look no further than Jeannie Rice. Featured in a recent Washington Post article, Jeannie is a 77-year-old runner whose VO2 max rivals that of someone decades younger. Her story isn’t just inspiring—it highlights why VO2 max is one of the most powerful indicators of health, longevity, and performance.
What Is VO2 Max?
VO2 max is a measure of how efficiently your body uses oxygen during exercise. The higher your VO2 max, the better your cardiovascular fitness and endurance. It’s a critical number for athletes, weekend warriors, and anyone interested in aging well.
Why VO2 Max Matters for Longevity
Jeannie’s exceptional VO2 max isn’t just impressive—it’s protective. Research shows that VO2 max is a strong predictor of mortality risk, making it a key metric for anyone looking to extend their healthspan. Maintaining high aerobic fitness through regular, structured training can help you stay active, sharp, and resilient as you age.
Train Smarter, Not Just Harder
You don’t have to be a marathoner to benefit from VO2 max training. With the right data, you can train within your personal aerobic zones to improve cardiovascular function, metabolic health, and recovery.
At Custom Fit SF, our VO2 max testing offers detailed insights into your aerobic thresholds, fueling efficiency, and personalized training zones. It’s not just for elite athletes—it’s for anyone who wants to move, feel, and age better.
Ready to Learn Your Numbers?
VO2 max testing at Custom Fit entails a 10-15 minute aerobic test, Resting Metabolic Rate test and a full breakdown with Mark Eaton, Exercise Physiologist and lead of Performance Testing. Whether you’re training for an event or just want to understand your body better, the VO2 Max test is one of the most impactful assessments you can do.
Inspired by Jeannie? Get Started on Your Journey.
Book your VO2 max test today and take the first step toward smarter training and better health.