What does RQ stand for in the context of VO2 max assessment?

In the context of VO2 max assessment, RQ stands for Respiratory Quotient. This measure is essential for understanding the metabolic processes occurring during exercise. The respiratory quotient is calculated as the ratio of carbon dioxide produced (VCO2) to oxygen consumed (VO2) during metabolism. It reflects the type of fuels being used by the body—whether carbohydrates or fats are being metabolized primarily for energy.

When assessing VO2 max, the RQ can provide insights into an individual's metabolic efficiency and the physiological adaptations in response to sustained exercise. For instance, an RQ value close to 1.0 typically indicates a higher reliance on carbohydrates, while values closer to 0.7 suggest fat oxidation predominates. This information is crucial for evaluating athletes' performance and tailoring training programs to enhance oxidative capacity and fuel utilization.