Before I wrap this up, let me make one point which really belongs in the next post which has to do with raising VO2 max. As you can see, for a given absolute VO2 max, a lighter person will have the advantage. Fat is basically dead weight and if you can lower your bodyfat without losing functional muscle tissue, your relative VO2 max will go up and performance should increase. Quite simply, it is necessary for peak performance. As a quick aside, this also explains why women generally don't perform at the same level as men in most endurance events.
Women naturally have a greater percentage of bodyfat in essential bodyfat.
My plan for this installment is to go into some details about how to raise VO2 max as they pertain to endurance oriented athletes. When it comes right down to it, the main way to increase oxygen uptake is to do distance, plain and simple. But, what exactly does raising VO2 max entail and what is happening. So, there are three things involved. Well, since, by definition, VO2 max will be highest at maximum heart rate, it would be great if you could raise this.