COROS VO2max: how it works.
Running VO2 max uses heart rate and pace from your recent outdoor runs. Since October 2026 there is also a cycling VO2 max from rides with power and heart rate data.
What counts towards your VO2max
Estimated from: Outdoor run, Bike (power meter). Not used: Treadmill.
What you need to do
One continuous 25-minute outdoor run (Run or Track Run mode, no pauses) at or above 65% of heart rate reserve, then at least one such run every 90 days. Cycling: a steady 20+ minute ride with a power meter and heart rate.
How it is shown
A VO2 max value on the watch and in the COROS app with a trend graph; cycling VO2 max is shown next to FTP.
Related features
- Fitness age: not confirmed
- Race predictor: yes
- Running Fitness score
- Threshold heart rate and pace zones
- Training Load
- Training Status (Base Fitness, Load Impact)
- Recovery timer
- Running Efficiency
- Training Effect
- Cycling FTP
Models
PACE 4 · PACE 4 Pro · APEX 4 · VERTIX 2S
How accurate is it?
We found no published, peer-reviewed validation of this estimate. Watch estimates in general are reasonable for groups but can be several points off for individuals — see how accurate watch VO2max is.
COROS says its estimate is 'tested to be very close to the lab test results' and more stable than other brands, but we found no published study. A guided 25-40 minute Running Fitness Test can reset your metrics. Cycling VO2 max arrived in the October 2026 update.
Frequently asked questions
How does COROS calculate VO2max?
Running VO2 max uses heart rate and pace from your recent outdoor runs. Since October 2026 there is also a cycling VO2 max from rides with power and heart rate data. One continuous 25-minute outdoor run (Run or Track Run mode, no pauses) at or above 65% of heart rate reserve, then at least one such run every 90 days. Cycling: a steady 20+ minute ride with a power meter and heart rate.
How accurate is COROS VO2max?
We found no published, peer-reviewed validation study of the COROS estimate. Treat it as a trend tracker rather than a lab value.
Which COROS devices show VO2max?
Examples: PACE 4, PACE 4 Pro, APEX 4, VERTIX 2S. Support depends on model and firmware.
Check your number against the norms for your age, estimate it with the VO2max calculator, or turn it into race times and paces.
Sources
- COROS Support: COROS Fitness Metrics Explained
- COROS Support: How to Receive and Update Running Fitness Metrics
- COROS Support: EvoLab
- COROS Support: Cycling VO2Max
- COROS Support: Cycling Fitness Metrics
- COROS Support: October 2026 Feature Update Overview
- COROS PACE 4 manual: Fitness Metrics
- COROS PACE 4 Pro manual: Fitness Metrics
- COROS APEX 4 manual: Fitness Metrics
- COROS VERTIX 2S manual: Fitness Metrics
COROS is a trademark of its owner. VO2max Health is independent and not affiliated with COROS. Features vary by model and firmware.