Timeframe for VO2 Max Improvement

Question

For those wondering how quickly improvements can be seen in the VO2 max with applied training, Collins et al., (1993) conducted a study of twelve sedentary adult males. Subjects were partitioned into two groups. One group was given three sessions of high-intensity aerobic exercises per week for 16 weeks, while the second group did not partake in high intensity workouts. Results showed an increase in VO2 max for Group I by over thirty percent while Group II exhibited no such change in VO2 max. DOY. CITE, P. 4.

Answer 1

Those aiming to enhance their VO2 Max through standard training schedules will see good rewards in just two weeks with four to five sessions in a week, though this is quite hefty. More often, three to four weeks training with six to eight sessions should be enough to bring about a noticeable improvement. Duration also matters, and it is better to keep the training at a relatively full pace instead of quick burst training.