Each year, thousands of clients make the decision to improve their health, lose weight, and become fit. Often, these deconditioned clients join a fitness facility with great intentions, only to let their memberships expire. Meeting the needs of the deconditioned population is without a doubt, the key to the ongoing success of any facility.
VO2 testing can provide the solutions to meeting the needs of the deconditioned client. This assessment provides unique information about individual clients, regardless of their level of fitness. And, although we normally associate VO2 testing with elite trainers and professional training centers, it is now available to any facility. Consider these problems addressed by a simple VO2 test:
Problem: Quick Burn-out
Some deconditioned clients see exercise as a punishment, adhering to the “no pain, no gain” school of thought. They actually push themselves too hard trying to make up for years of sedentary lifestyles, yet the stiff, sore muscles that follow may keep them from coming back.
Solution: Aerobic and Anaerobic Thresholds
VO2 testing determines Aerobic Threshold, which is the intensity level that will maximize fat burning, yet keep the client comfortable. At or below this level of intensity, a person can work out for an extended period without significant lactic acid build up. Using this will decrease the fatigue and discomfort associated with overexertion. VO2 Testing also determines Anaerobic Threshold, which defines the border between moderate and high intensity zones. This higher intensity level stresses the cardiovascular system and is a key intensity level for strengthening the cardiovascular system (also known as aerobic training).
The VO2 fitness assessment tells the trainer which client’s heart rates are associated with these intensity zones. It offers real data – not a poor estimate from a chart or graph. Knowing the correct intensity zones is very important for guiding the deconditioned client to a successful program.
Problem: Perceived Exertion
Many deconditioned athletes are the opposite of the “no pain, no gain” crowd. These clients are uncomfortable with the sensation of pushing themselves, and think they are working harder than they really are. Consider this statement by Oprah, “I used to start a workout program thinking that it was enough to show up every day to work out, but I would hardly break a sweat. What I learned was that I was not working out at the right intensity. In my past exercise experiences, whenever I hit the right intensity zone, I’d stay there for a short while, then I’d prefer to work out at a slower pace.”
Solution: Precise Target Heart Rates
VO2 Testing pinpoints various heart rate zones that can be used to improve cardiovascular strength, increase endurance, or lose weight. This will show the client precise Target Heart Rates to maintain the right level of intensity to meet their goals. Using these customized heart rates will help teach the client what it feels like to be at a “low,” “moderate,” or “intense” level of workout. Working out with a heart rate monitor will increase your client’s ability to maintain the proper intensity zone.
Problem: Discouragement
Deconditioned clients can get discouraged very easily, and they sometimes have unrealistic expectations regarding quick results.
Solution: Peak VO2
Peak oxygen consumption can be used very effectively with deconditioned clients as a motivator. The test reports the amount of oxygen the client’s body uses as they exercise. As their fitness improves their oxygen consumption (VO2) will also increase. This allows the client to set quantitative goals and also provides a way to measure their progress. Seeing that number increase can motivate a client to keep going, even if the mirror doesn’t show results yet.
Problem: Intimidation Clients (and trainers) can sometimes be intimidated by new, scientific kinds of things.
Solution: Easy-to-Use VO2 Systems
Performing a VO2 Fitness Assessment has become very simple and practical to implement in any facility. The test consists of a 10- to 15-minute graded exercise on a treadmill, bike, stepper, or other cardio equipment. The client simply breathes through a mask while exercising, allowing the instrument to measure the rate of oxygen consumption (VO2), ventilation, and heart rate. From these measurements it will automatically detect the individual’s Aerobic and Anaerobic Thresholds and report workout intensity zones based on heart rate. It is really simple. Anyone can do it.
RESULTS
Nothing solves problems like RESULTS. With VO2 Testing, clients can maximize their workout efforts to obtain amazing results. They will become increasingly more comfortable working out and learn to enjoy (not dread) their time in the gym. VO2 Testing will bring results that will turn your deconditioned athletes into customers for life!
Scott Kofoed, Ph.D is the President of KORR Medical Technologies. He can be contacted at 801.483.2080, or by email atscott@korr.com or visit www.korr.com.
