VO2arvona

VO2arvona is a hypothetical physiological metric used in exercise science to quantify the average rate of oxygen consumption during a standardized submaximal exercise period. The term is not widely adopted in clinical practice and remains primarily within theoretical or experimental discussions.

Definition and calculation: VO2arvona is defined as the mean oxygen uptake during a predefined steady-state window of a submaximal trial, typically the final 5 to 10 minutes of a 15- to 20-minute test at a fixed intensity (for example 60–70% of estimated VO2max). It is usually reported in ml/kg/min, and may be expressed as a percentage of VO2max for comparability. In some proposals, it is normalized to lean body mass.

Measurement protocol: Participants perform treadmill or cycle ergometry with breath-by-breath gas analysis. After an initial ramp to the target intensity, a steady-state period is identified; the average VO2 over that window is recorded as VO2arvona. Quality control includes ensuring minimal drift and stable ventilation.

Interpretation: VO2arvona is intended to reflect aerobic efficiency during sustained activity, isolating submaximal performance from peak capacity and anaerobic excursions. It may be used alongside VO2max, ventilatory threshold, and lactate threshold.

Limitations and status: There is no universal agreement on the precise window, units, or normative values; results are sensitive to protocol and equipment; limited cross-study comparability; not used in routine clinical practice.

See also: VO2max, VO2peak, ventilatory threshold, lactate threshold, aerobic fitness.