Which exercise would likely improve VO2 Max?

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is particularly effective for improving VO2 Max because it involves alternating between periods of intense exercise and lower-intensity recovery. This type of training pushes the cardiovascular system to work at higher intensities for shorter periods, which has been shown to boost aerobic capacity more effectively than steady-state exercises.

The nature of HIIT session—rapid bursts of effort followed by rest—stimulates both the heart and lungs to adapt and become more efficient at delivering and utilizing oxygen during physical activity. Over time, this leads to significant improvements in overall cardiovascular fitness, as measured by VO2 Max, which is the maximum amount of oxygen the body can utilize during intense exercise.

In contrast, running at a consistent pace certainly contributes to cardiovascular fitness but may not yield the same levels of adaptation as HIIT, particularly without variations in intensity. Weightlifting primarily focuses on strength rather than aerobic capacity, and while it can improve muscular endurance, it doesn’t specifically target VO2 Max improvement. Stretching exercises have a different objective altogether, primarily enhancing flexibility rather than aerobic efficiency.