Beep Test VO2max Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the beep test vo2max calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Estimated VO2max
vo2max_estimate = 3.46 * (level + shuttles / 10) + 12.2Level Achieved
level_display = level + shuttles / 10Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
level | Level Reached | 9 |
shuttles | Shuttles Completed at That Level | 6 |
total_level_decimal | Derived value= level + shuttles / 10 | calculated |
How It Works
Beep Test to VO2max Conversion
The multi-stage fitness test (beep test) involves running 20-meter shuttles at progressively faster speeds. The level reached correlates strongly with maximal oxygen uptake.
Ramsbottom Equation
VO2max = 3.46 x Level (decimal) + 12.2 mL/kg/min
The decimal level combines the level number with shuttles (e.g., Level 9 shuttle 6 = 9.6). This equation provides a reasonable estimate for adult populations.
Worked Example
An athlete reaches Level 9, shuttle 6 on the beep test.
level = 9shuttles = 6
- 01Decimal level = 9 + 6/10 = 9.6
- 02VO2max = 3.46 x 9.6 + 12.2 = 33.216 + 12.2 = 45.4 mL/kg/min
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Beep Test VO2max Calculator