Final answer:
VO₂ max refers to the body's highest rate of oxygen consumption during intense exercise.
Step-by-step explanation:
The body's highest rate of oxygen consumption is referred to as VO₂ max. VO₂ max, also known as maximal oxygen uptake or aerobic capacity, is the maximum amount of oxygen that an individual can utilize during intense exercise. It is a measure of cardiovascular fitness and endurance.
VO₂ max can be determined through various exercise tests, such as a graded exercise test on a treadmill or stationary bike. During the test, the individual gradually increases their exercise intensity until exhaustion, while their oxygen consumption is measured. The point at which oxygen consumption plateaus or reaches a maximum is their VO₂ max.
A high VO₂ max indicates better cardiorespiratory fitness, as the body is able to efficiently utilize oxygen for energy production.