We’ve all been there. You take a break from your routine, life gets busy, and suddenly, the stairs feel a little steeper than they used to. This morning, I decided it was time to stop guessing and start measuring. I completed my cardiorespiratory assessment, and to be honest, the results were a bit of a “cardio reality check.”
But instead of letting it discourage me, I’m sharing this because I know I’m not alone. Here is what happened, what I learned, and why a “poor” score is actually the best motivation I’ve had in months.
Choosing My Challenge: The Assessment
When it comes to measuring cardiorespiratory health, I had two assessments to choose from:
- The One-Mile Walk: A fast-paced walk where running isn’t allowed.
- The 1.5-Mile Run: A distance test where you can transition to a walk if necessary.
Even though I’ll be the first to admit I hate running, I chose the 1.5-mile run because I knew I could do it.
The Results: My Cardio Reality Check and A Hard Look at the Numbers
After plugging in my data, the results were clear. My VO2 max came in at 31.72.
To put that in perspective:
- 31 and below is categorized as “Poor.”
- 32 and higher would have put me in the “Fair” category.
I’m currently nowhere near the “Good,” “Excellent,” or “Superior” brackets. While it’s a little disappointing to see that “Poor” label, it wasn’t entirely surprising. During the test, I had to drop from a run to a walk several times because my heart rate spiked over 200 beats per minute.
The “Why”: Health Hurdles and Real-Life Impacts
For me, this isn’t just about a number on a screen; it’s about managing my health. I live with Graves’ Disease, which means my heart rate is naturally higher than most and can enter a “dangerous zone” very quickly.
I’ve also started noticing the physical toll of being out of routine. Lately, I’ve found myself losing my breath while teaching my classes. As a fitness professional, that’s a sign I simply can’t ignore.
The Game Plan: Getting Back on Track
The good news? I know exactly what works for me. I’ve found that consistent, steady-state cardio helps level out my heart rate and lower my resting heart rate over time.
I don’t look at this assessment as a failure. I look at it as a necessary wake-up call. It’s my new baseline—the floor from which I’m going to build back up.
You can check out the full video here.
Join Me on the Journey
If you’ve been feeling out of your routine or avoiding that “reality check,” consider this your sign to join me. We don’t start at “Superior”; we start exactly where we are. It’s time for me to get back on the treadmill, and I’d love to have you along for the ride. Visit my work with me page to find out how we can work together to achieve your goals. You can also send me an email or schedule a time for us to chat to learn more.
