The acronym VO2 max refers to the maximum amount of oxygen the body can utilize during intense exercise. It is a key indicator of cardiovascular fitness and aerobic endurance. Higher VO2 max values suggest better fitness levels, allowing individuals to perform sustained physical activities more efficiently. This measure is often evaluated through exercise testing, typically using a treadmill or cycle ergometer, where exercise intensity is gradually increased until exhaustion. Enhancing one's VO2 max through various training regimens can lead to improved performance in endurance sports and overall health.