What affects VO2 max by gender?
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VO2 max differences between men and women are influenced by several physiological factors. Generally, men tend to have higher VO2 max values than women due to differences in hemoglobin levels, heart size, and muscle mass, which are factors that contribute to greater oxygen transport and utilization capacity in men 1. Men typically aim for VO2 max values above 50, while women target values around 30 as a baseline, though both can strive for higher numbers with training 2.
Other factors, such as hormonal influences like testosterone, play a role as well. Testosterone, present in both sexes but higher in men, can impact aerobic performance by influencing muscle mass and metabolic capacities, which in turn affect VO2 max levels 3. Additionally, training methods like high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can improve VO2 max efficiently for both genders, although women may need to consider different training protocols due to their unique muscle fiber composition and metabolic needs 1.
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