VO2 max is a good indicator of running performance potential, but it isn't the only factor — running economy, discomfort tolerance, and nutrition management matter too — and beyond running, a high VO2 max is one of the strongest longevity markers in the general population.

noli's read

The creator correctly caveats his own number: a high VO2 max gives potential, not a performance guarantee, which matches what's known about the multiple determinants of endurance performance (running economy, thresholds, pain tolerance). On the longevity side, the evidence is strong: a study of over 122,000 adults who underwent treadmill testing found the fittest had roughly five times lower all-cause mortality than the least fit, with no observed ceiling on the benefit. This is an observational association (a population referred for exercise testing), not strict proof of causation, but the size and consistency of the effect make it one of the most robust health markers there is. The post honestly connects a personal runner's experience to a broader science that goes beyond it.

the sources

1. 1Mandsager K, Harb S, Cremer P, Phelan D, Nissen SE, Jaber W 2018