Apple Watch SE 2: Understanding VO2 Max and Fitness Levels
BY Shaik Hameed
June 9, 2025
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If you’ve recently purchased an Apple Watch SE 2 and stumbled upon the term “VO2 Max,” you’re not alone. Many users overlook this powerful health indicator tucked inside the Cardio Fitness section of the watch. But understanding and using it can help transform your fitness journey.
Before we break down VO2 Max, we highly recommend reviewing our Apple Watch SE 2 Ultimate Guide for 2025 to learn all the essential features your device offers including those that enhance fitness, heart health, and performance insights.
What is VO2 Max?
VO2 Max refers to the maximum amount of oxygen your body can utilize during intense exercise, measured in milliliters per kilogram of body weight per minute (ml/kg/min). It is widely accepted by fitness and medical experts as one of the most accurate indicators of cardiovascular health and aerobic endurance.
Apple Watch SE 2 estimates VO2 Max during brisk walks, runs, or hikes when your heart rate is elevated. The more oxygen your body can use, the more fit and efficient your cardiovascular system is.
Why VO2 Max Matters for Your Health
Higher VO2 Max = Better heart health and endurance
Early warning signal for deteriorating fitness or underlying issues
Aids in personalizing your training plans
Used by athletes to benchmark performance
VO2 Max Ranges by Fitness Level
Fitness Level
VO2 Max (ml/kg/min)
Excellent
50+
Good
40–49
Average
30–39
Below Average
20–29
Poor
< 20
VO2 Max naturally declines with age, but consistent training can slow this decline significantly.
How Apple Watch SE 2 Measures VO2 Max
Apple uses a combination of:
Heart rate sensor
Accelerometer
GPS tracking
Age, weight, and gender data from the Health app
The more data your watch collects during your workouts, the more accurate your VO2 Max readings become over time.
Where to Find Your VO2 Max in the Watch
Open the Fitness or Health App on your iPhone.
Tap Browse > Heart > Cardio Fitness.
View your VO2 Max estimate and trends over time.
You’ll also get notifications if your cardio fitness falls into the low range based on your age and sex.
Real-World Testimonial
“As a 40-year-old desk worker trying to improve health, the VO2 Max feature helped me see where I stood and kept me motivated week over week. Seeing the numbers go up after daily walks was the push I needed.” Meera Joshi, Chennai
Include brisk walks, cycling, running, or swimming
Avoid long sedentary periods during the day
Track and adjust with data from your Apple Watch
FAQs
Is Apple Watch VO2 Max accurate? Yes, it provides a reliable estimate, especially if workouts are done consistently outdoors with good GPS signal.
How often is VO2 Max updated? Every time you do a cardio workout (like running or brisk walking) outdoors for at least 20 minutes.
Can I still get a VO2 Max reading indoors? Not usually. VO2 Max calculations require outdoor GPS and elevated heart rate conditions.
Why is my VO2 Max not showing? Make sure your Health app profile is complete and you’re doing regular cardio workouts outdoors.
Does Apple Watch SE 2 show VO2 Max during the workout? No, it shows after the workout ends and is logged in the Health app.
Final Thoughts
VO2 Max might sound like a technical term reserved for athletes, but it’s one of the most insightful tools available to anyone wearing an Apple Watch SE 2. With zero extra effort, you can let your watch monitor this number quietly in the background and use it as a compass for your overall health and progress.
If your goal in 2025 is to walk more, live longer, and build real stamina, start with tracking your VO2 Max it’s already on your wrist.
Shaik is a tech enthusiast with a master’s degree in computer applications (MCA) and a deep-rooted passion for the latest gadgets, mobile innovations, and digital trends. With a sharp eye for emerging technologies and a natural flair for storytelling, he brings a unique blend of technical insight and editorial precision to the Grepbyte team.
As Assistant Editor, Shaik will be curating and contributing high-impact content that bridges the gap between complex tech and everyday users—ensuring our readers stay informed, inspired, and ahead of the curve.
Whether it's breaking down the newest smartphone features or exploring productivity tools, Shaik is here to make tech both accessible and exciting.
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