Updated
Using VO2 max calculator
Estimate VO2 max with the Uth heart-rate ratio equation: 15.3 times maximum heart rate divided by resting heart rate.
The original study measured 46 well-trained men aged 21-51. This page is limited to that reference population and does not validate the method for other groups, heart-rate-altering medication or illness. Supply an existing measured maximum, not 220 minus age. This is not a measured VO2 max, diagnosis or instruction to perform a maximal test.
A worked example
For measured maximum heart rate (bpm) = 180, resting heart rate (bpm) = 60, age (years) = 30, estimated vo2 max (ml/kg/min) = 45.9.
Before you use the result
The original study measured 46 well-trained men aged 21-51. This page is limited to that reference population and does not validate the method for other groups, heart-rate-altering medication or illness. Supply an existing measured maximum, not 220 minus age. This is not a measured VO2 max, diagnosis or instruction to perform a maximal test.
Example results for measured maximum heart rate (bpm)
These examples use Resting heart rate (bpm): 60; Age (years): 30. They are reference calculations, not recommended settings.
| Measured maximum heart rate (bpm) | Estimated VO2 max (mL/kg/min) |
|---|---|
| 90 | 22.95 |
| 180 | 45.9 |
Cite this page
ToolOctopus. “VO2 max calculator.” Updated 2026-09-29. https://tooloctopus.com/vo2-max-calculator.
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