VO2max as a marker for HBOT Progress| with Dr. Joe Watso

In this episode of the How to Hyperbaric Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Joe Watso, assistant professor at Florida State University and director of the Cardiovascular and Applied Physiology Laboratory.We break down the science of VO2 max, one of the strongest predictors of longevity and overall health. Dr. Watso explains what VO2 max actually measures, why it reflects far more than just fitness, and how it connects to cardiovascular function, lung capacity, mitochondrial health, and long-term independence.We discuss how VO2 max is properly measured in a laboratory setting, how to get an estimate at home, how accurate wearable estimates really are, and how often it makes sense to test it. We also explore how VO2 max compares to heart rate variability (HRV), what lactate threshold and exercise economy reveal about performance, and what markers matter most for longevity and wellness.📌 Find Dr. Joe Watso here: https://joewatso.com/📚Get Certified and Learn how to use HBOT safely and effectively in our certification course: https://drmasha.com/hbot-certification-course/ 👩🏻‍⚕️ Book your Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy consultation with Dr. Masha: https://drmasha.com/consult-with-me/ Timestamps:00:00 INTRO01:48 What Is VO2 Max?02:08 How to Measure VO2 Max03:22 What VO2 Max Can Tell Us About Our Body04:31 How VO2 Max Relates to Longevity06:24 Can We Use VO2 Max as a Marker to Measure Therapy Progress?07:52 Heart Rate Variability (HRV) vs. VO2 Max12:56 What to Do to Increase Your VO2 Max14:37 Do You Need to Be Fit Before Training VO2 Max?18:10 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and VO2 Max19:24 Mitochondria and VO2 Max — What’s the Link?21:59 Combining Hyperbaric Therapy With Interval Training23:56 How Often Should You Test VO2 Max?25:26 Are VO2 Max Devices Accurate?27:25 Lactate Threshold Explained31:01 Running Economy vs. Cycling Economy32:56 Best Markers for Longevity and Wellness36:45 Are Wearables Accurate for VO2 Max?41:46 Where to Find Dr. Joseph WatsoThanks for watching! DISCLAIMER: All content posted on this channel is for informational purposes only. Statements and views expressed on this podcast are not medical advice. This podcast disclaims responsibility from any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. Opinions of guests are their own, and this podcast does not accept responsibility for statements made by guests. This podcast does not make any representations or warranties about guests' qualifications or credibility. Individuals on this podcast may have a direct or non-direct interest in products or services referred to herein. If you think you have a medical problem, consult a licensed physician.