The full read
The age-related decline in VO2 max (on the order of 8-10% per decade after age 25-30 without sustained training) is well documented in the cardiorespiratory-aging literature (e.g., data from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging). The threshold cited (17.5 ml/kg/min as a minimum for daily-living activities) is a benchmark used in cardiac rehabilitation, consistent with that literature. Combined with the mortality data (the fittest people have several-times lower death risk), the idea that 'starting high protects you longer' is a reasonable conclusion, even though the post doesn't cite a specific source. The message is accurate and well calibrated, without exaggeration.
holds upthe post