Have you ever wondered how you can keep that youthful energy alive as the years go by? For me, the secret has been finding fun ways to stay active and keep my heart healthy. Recently, I’ve been loving my weekly spinning classes with my husband at my local gym, VillaSport. What makes these sessions especially exciting is how they’re helping me improve something called VO2 max, which is a key marker of cardiovascular health and fitness.

What is VO2 Max, and Why Should You Care?

VO2 max might sound a bit technical, but it’s really just a fancy term for how much oxygen your body can use during intense exercise. Think of it as your body’s ability to fuel itself during those challenging moments—whether you're powering through a spin class or chasing after the kids. The higher your VO2 max, the better your cardiovascular fitness, which can make everyday activities feel easier and more manageable.

But here’s how it can help as the fountain of youth: VO2 max is also linked to what’s called your biological age, which is a reflection of how young or old your body really is, regardless of your actual chronological age. By boosting your VO2 max, you’re not just improving your fitness—you’re actually helping to slow down the aging process. Imagine feeling as energetic and vibrant as you did in your 20s, even as the years go by.

Here is a snap shot of my VO2 max and biological age both measured by the Oura ring!

How Spinning is Helping Me Improve My VO2 Max

Spinning has become one of my favorite ways to work on my VO2 max. It’s a fun, high-energy workout that’s perfect for improving cardiovascular health. During a Les Mills class, you ride a stationary bike along to a giant screen that makes it feel like you’re on a real cycling track. You push harder when you’re climbing a hill and ease off when you’re going downhill—it’s much more engaging than just pedaling away on a traditional exercise bike!

To make the most of these sessions, I’ve geared up with padded shorts and cycling shoes that clip onto the pedals. This helps me use my energy more efficiently, so I can push and pull with each pedal stroke. It helps me work harder and smarter so I get the most benefit from my time on the bike.

Why VO2 Max Matters for Your Health and Well-Being

One of the best things about improving your VO2 max is that it helps with so much more than just fitness. A higher VO2 max means better heart and lung function, which translates to more energy throughout the day. You’ll find that you can handle daily activities with ease, whether it’s playing with the kids, walking up the stairs, or enjoying a full day out without feeling wiped out.

Plus, there’s something so empowering about knowing that you’re taking steps to not only stay fit but also to protect your long-term health. Higher VO2 max levels have been linked to lower risks of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, and they’re even associated with a longer lifespan. It’s one of those small, consistent efforts that can make a big difference in how you feel and how you age.

How You Can Boost Your VO2 Max, Too

The great news is that you don’t have to be a professional athlete to improve your VO2 max. Simple activities like brisk walking, tennis, swimming, or, of course, spinning can all help. The key is to find something you enjoy and stick with it. As you build your endurance, you’ll naturally start to see improvements in your VO2 max.

If you’re new to this, start slow and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. And if you’re looking for a fun way to get started, why not try a spinning class? You might just find, like I did, that it’s a great way to stay motivated and enjoy your workouts.

Bringing It All Together

Taking care of your heart and staying fit helps you feel your best and anticipates a long, healthy life. By focusing on your VO2 max, you’re doing something amazing for your body that can pay off in health and longevity. I’m so glad I’ve found spinning as a way to stay active and connected with my husband, and I hope you’ll find something that lights you up, too.

If you’re curious about how to start improving your VO2 max or have any questions about spinning, I’m here to help. Keep moving forward together, staying strong, healthy, and full of energy for all the adventures life brings.

Love,
Jenn