Heart Lab

Everything You Need to Know About VO2 Max

In this episode, we dive deep into the science of VO2 max with internationally renowned sports cardiologist Professor André La Gerche. From wearable tech to elite endurance, we explore the myths, metrics, and meaningful takeaways around one of the most talked-about fitness indicators. Is My Watch Accurate?How reliable are consumer VO2 max readings, and what should you look for in the data? Capacity vs. EfficiencyVO2 max isn’t just about your lungs — what does it really measure, and does it mean you have a larger or stronger heart? Ventilatory Threshold vs. VO2 MaxWhy your ventilatory (or lactate) threshold may be a more practical measure of performance than VO2 max alone. Lessons from the Sub-2 Hour MarathonWhat the historic attempt taught us about oxygen uptake, training zones, and human potential. Longevity and VO2 MaxDoes a higher VO2 max translate into a longer life? We discuss what the research says about fitness, ageing, and disease risk. Building vs. Losing VO2 MaxHow to improve your VO2 max through training — and how quickly it can decline without it. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, elite athlete, or health enthusiast, this episode discusses the science and practical applications of VO2 max in a clear, evidence-based conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you have a finite number of heartbeats, why waste them?

Does exercise "waste" heartbeats? Can you use up your heartbeats by exercising? Is there a smart way to manage them? Professor André La Gerche breaks down what we know—whether exercise actually "spends" your heartbeats, how to use them wisely, and what the latest research says.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sudden Cardiac Death | Prof André La Gerche

Every year, Sudden Cardiac Death claims the lives of 500 Victorians under 50—three to four times more than road accidents. In this episode, we explore the causes, risk factors, and misconceptions of Cardiac Arrests, Sudden Cardiac Death, and Heart Failure. We dive into the role of genetics, the challenges of screening, and what family screening looks like for those with a history of cardiac arrest. Plus, we break down the critical importance of CPR and defibrillation, the complex relationship between exercise and heart health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Healthy Heart Disease | Bruce Carter and Andre La Gerche

Bruce Carter shares his journey of Heart Disease from a healthy middle-aged man to a near-death experience. Bruce is joined by Andre La Gerche who throughout the episodes explains the symptoms, medical procedures, and the too common occurrence of Heart Disease. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are general in nature and do not necessarily represent those of our places of work. Information presented in the podcast is not intended to address the unique circumstances of each individual. Please do not use this content as a substitute for a personal medical assessment. If this podcast raises questions for you about your own health, please consult with your doctor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warnie - yet more to give | Jessica Orchard & André La Gerche

Shane Warne tragically passed away from a suspected heart attack at the age of 52. In this episode, Dr Jessica Orchard and A/Prof Andre La Gerche discuss what happened to Shane, what we currently know about Cardiovascular disease and how people can look after their own heart health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.