• 571-212-2895
  • sue@heflerperformancecoaching.com
  • Falls Church, VA 20158

Physiological Testing

V.O.2. Max Testing


Comprehensive Physiological Testing for Cycling, Running, and Triathlon

Training is hard work – why not make sure you’re getting the most benefit possible? Performance testing can provide you with the accurate data you need to target your workouts for maximum effectiveness. We offer metabolic, sub-max, and VO2 max testing on our state-of-the-art ParvoMedics’ TrueOne 2400 Metabolic Analyzer. This is the same machinery used at the National Institute of Health, U.S. Olympic Training Centers, and the exercise physiology labs of many top universities. The cost is $200 and includes testing, analysis of results, documented training zones, and recommendations for advancement.



A performance test will provide you with the following data:

  • Heart rate and power training zones for recovery, endurance, tempo, lactate threshold, and anaerobic threshold.
  • Functional Threshold Power (FTP) and optimal fat-burning wattage.
  • Lung capacity and maximal oxygen uptake.
  • Correlation between heart rate zones and critical metabolic processes based on Respiratory Exchange Rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be rested?

YES. You can exercise the day or even 2 days before, but you want the exercise to be light, less than 1 hour, and no higher than endurance pacing.

How long does testing take?

Do I bring my own bike?

YES athletes test on their own bike that they are used to, runners test using our treadmill.

Shouldn't I "train" to test?

HOW?? Many people that I test have never used accurate training zones. An exercise test is equivalent to going to get an assessment. If you don't have current and accurate training zones, you are guessing at your training. The first thing an athlete should do, if they want to start in with a training plan, is test. Get their baseline physiology. This takes all the "guess work" out of training and makes the training that much more quality.

Isn't a 20-minute FTP test enough?

NO!!! Look having a power meter is a great tool, BUT, it is limited. Heart rate is still the golden ticket as far as measuring stress. Want to lose weight?? You MUST know where your zone 2 is, to build up those pathways.

How long are these testing numbers valid?

Once you start a training plan and start applying training stress on the body, it will adapt and change. Having accurate data is required to see positive adaptation; again it is about eliminating guess work in your daily training. Numbers change every 3-4 months, so retesting should take place at least every 6 months. Like going to the dentist, every 3-4 months is ideal.

Will indoor cycling training help improve my running or swimming? 

CompuTrainer is a great cycling-specific workout which will help build your aerobic base. Many athletes take their improved fitness gains into running and swimming.  



In simple terms, these physiological quantities allow us to evaluate clients’ initial fitness and mark their progress over time. Although it is known infamously as the “torture test,” everyone can find satisfaction in the hard evidence that the assessment provides. We all know there is nothing better than seeing hard work pay off! Contact us to learn more or schedule your testing!