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Maximal oxygen uptake: "classical" versus "contemporary" viewpoints

D R Bassett1, E T Howley

  • 1Exercise Science Unit, University of Tennesee, Knoxville 37919, USA.

Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|May 1, 1997
PubMed
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The classical view that maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) is limited by cardiorespiratory systems is supported by evidence. Alternative theories suggesting muscle factors are not supported by scientific data.

Area of Science:

  • Exercise Physiology
  • Sports Science

Background:

  • The traditional concept of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) was established by A. V. Hill in the 1920s.
  • Hill proposed VO2max is limited by circulatory and respiratory systems, observing a "VO2 plateau" in some individuals.
  • Recent criticism by Timothy Noakes challenges Hill's paradigm, suggesting "muscle factors" limit endurance performance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically evaluate conflicting theories on VO2max limitations.
  • To determine whether cardiorespiratory or muscular factors are the primary determinants of VO2max.
  • To reaffirm the validity of the classical VO2max paradigm.

Main Methods:

  • Review of historical and contemporary scientific literature on VO2max.
  • Analysis of evidence supporting both A. V. Hill's and Timothy Noakes's theories.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Comparative assessment of experimental data regarding oxygen transport and muscle factors.

    • Main Results:

    • The "VO2 plateau" phenomenon, while not universally observed, is not the sole evidence for cardiorespiratory limitation.
    • Noakes's "muscle factors" theory lacks substantial supporting evidence and contradicts established physiological principles.
    • A vast body of scientific evidence consistently demonstrates that oxygen transport is a key determinant of endurance performance.

    Conclusions:

    • The classical VO2max paradigm, as proposed by A. V. Hill, remains the most scientifically valid explanation.
    • Cardiorespiratory system limitations are a primary determinant of VO2max.
    • Further research should focus on the established principles of oxygen transport in determining endurance capacity.