Maximal oxygen uptake measures cardio-respiratory fitness, which is the ability of an individual to exercise continuously for an extended period of time with out fatigue. Oxygen is highly important as it is required for the production of cellular energy (ATP). (Marieb, 2001, p. 29). ATP stores, and releases chemical energy for the body's cells. (Marieb, 2001, p. 1182). Each cell consumes oxygen and converts food energy to usable ATP for cellular work. During exercise muscle cells require more ATP which in turn indicates they will also use more oxygen. When assessing individuals VO2max, exercise is undertaken using the large muscle groups, and by measuring oxygen uptake whilst increasing the work intensity, we are able to observe a plateau value which indicates VO2max.
             @ The historical development of methodologies used to assess VO2max.
             The study of exercise physiology has evolved over the years and advances made have always followed those made in the study of basic physiology. (Massengale & Swanson, 1997, p. 367). The structure and function of the human body has been a fascinating thing that has been studied for centuries, even dating back to the ancient Greek days. However, it wasn't until the early 1500's that any significant findings were recorded. Anatomy, the study of the structure of the human body, preceded any physiological findings and the first text book was published in 1543. It was titled 'Fabrica Humani Corporis,' (Structure of the Human Body), and was written by Andeas Vesalius. Although the text provided little insight concerning the physiological functions of the body, the detailing of the anatomical structure of the body provided a grounding for which future physiological studies would be built upon. (Wilmore & Costill, 1999, p. 4).
             Testing methodologies used to access VO2max have changed dramatically over the years due to advances in technology. The very first 'true' ...