Hydroworx

Hey,
Today I did a VO2-max test in the hydroworx pool. It is basically an underwater treadmill with water jets for resistance. The test measures how much oxygen your body is able to use. I was a test subject for a Ph.D. student (Superman) in the human performance department.

Before.
It was a fun experience. First, I stepped into the pool onto the treadmill belt, then Superman lowered the floor until I was submerged to mid-chest. He had me warm-up and get used to running in the pool while hooking up the testing apparatus. It was like a snorkel, but much larger, with clamps so it stays on your head.

During.
He started me running at 6.5 mph with the jets at 40% of max, making sure that the equipment was working correctly. Each minute after that, he increased the speed by 1 mph, until I was running at 8.5 mph. I stayed there for a minute then Superman started increasing the jets by 10% each minute. Let me note, that the test is a total exertion test. He told me that when I was finished, I should be at the point where I couldn't go another step. I made my way up to the point that the jets were at 90% (the max that people usually test at). My lower calf and the front of my leg, near my ankle, burned. No doubt my muscles were still tired from my intense brick workout on Tuesday night. Superman yelled, "Come on Mike, you've already got half this minute done! Let's max-out this machine today." He's so good at being encouraging. I pushed for another 30 seconds until the minute was over. Superman stopped the test and I collapsed to the edge of the pool where there was an edge I could stand on without being hurled backward.

After.
I stood there, my legs shaking, while catching my breath. Superman told me that I did very well for my first time. I had achieved VO2 max of about 64. Which is on par with collegiate track athletes. For comparison, Lance Armstrong's VO2 max is around 74, if memory serves me correctly. I cooled down, got out of the pool and chatted with Superman about what the numbers on the printout meant. I can use this info to determine what heart rate I should be training at for different workout types.

Pics to follow.
MM

Before.



During.





After.