I've always focused on lifting numbers and never really paid attention to cardio fitness. Recently I started doing more easy steady state work and keeping an eye on my VO₂ max through my watch. The number itself isn't everything but it has been interesting seeing my general fitness improve. I can walk uphill, climb stairs and recover from hard efforts without feeling as exhausted. Anyone else focus on zone training or VO₂ max alongside lifting?
My biggest improvement was between sets I recover much faster after a hard set of squats now and d I still take proper rest but I'm not sitting there completely out of breath.
I like having both easy cardio and harder work in my routine. Easy sessions build consistency without beating me up while occasional harder sessions give me that extra conditioning challenge.
Zone 2 has been surprisingly useful for me. It isn't exciting but I can tell my aerobic base is better because I don't get exhausted from basic activities anymore.
The VO2 MAX number is useful as a trend rather than something I'd obsess over. Mine gradually improved over time and the real benefit was simply feeling fitter in everyday life.
I noticed the difference outside the gym first. Hiking and walking around all day became much easier and then I realized my gym sessions felt easier too
Improved cardiovascular fitness can make high-volume sessions more manageable.
Vo2 max is more useful for tracking a trend than chasing a single number
Completing difficult cardio sessions can build confidence and consistency and mixing easier aerobic work with occasional hard efforts can be easier to maintain than making every cardio session maximal.