Oura Ring Adds Automatic VO2 Max and Cardio Effort Metrics to Health Tracking
Oura updates its smart ring software to include passive cardio fitness estimates and new strain assessments for third-generation devices and newer models.
Key points
- Oura introduces Cardio Effort, a metric gauging weekly activity strain against a user's baseline using five distinct ranges.
- The company adds automatic VO2 Max estimation to Oura Labs, removing the previous requirement for a manual six-minute walking test.
- These new cardiovascular features are available for the third-generation Oura Ring and later hardware models.
Smart ring manufacturer Oura announced the addition of two new cardiovascular health metrics to its device ecosystem. The update introduces Cardio Effort and automatic VO2 Max estimation, expanding the health data available to users of the third-generation Oura Ring and newer models.
The new Cardio Effort feature assesses the physical strain placed on the wearer during activity. According to Engadget, this personalized metric provides five ranges: light, fair, maintaining, building, and reaching. These categories allow users to gauge how their weekly activities compare to their individual baseline. The company states the feature is based on the Training Impulse method and is designed to monitor long-term trends in cardiovascular activity.
Changes to VO2 Max Tracking
The second major update concerns the estimation of VO2 Max statistics. Previously, this feature was known as Cardio Capacity within the Oura Labs tool. That earlier version was not automatic and required users to complete a specific six-minute walking test before the metric could be enabled.
The revised VO2 Max feature now makes passive estimations during regular GPS-enabled workouts. This change eliminates the need for the manual walking test. Engadget reports that these automatic stats will be available in Oura Labs for the third-generation Oura Ring and later models.
Competitive Context for Wearables
These additions expand Oura’s offerings for holistic health data. Other wearable technology companies, including Apple and Fitbit, have been able to track similar cardio metrics for some time. The integration of these features may make the Oura Ring a more viable option for consumers who prefer the ring form factor over watches or bracelets.
What should you do?
Users of third-generation Oura Rings and newer models should check for the latest firmware updates to access these new features. Ensure GPS is enabled during workouts to allow for passive VO2 Max estimation. Review the Cardio Effort ranges to understand how your current activity levels compare to your baseline.
What to do and how to stay safe: Oura
- Update your Oura app and device firmware to ensure compatibility with the new Cardio Effort and VO2 Max features.
- Enable GPS tracking on your smartphone during outdoor workouts to facilitate passive VO2 Max estimations.
- Review your weekly Cardio Effort scores to monitor long-term trends in cardiovascular strain relative to your baseline.
- Consult the Oura Labs section of the app to locate the new metrics and understand the five-range strain assessment system.
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Frequently asked questions
Which Oura Ring models support the new VO2 Max and Cardio Effort features?
The features are available for the third-generation Oura Ring and later models.
Do I still need to perform a walking test to get VO2 Max data?
No, the new feature makes passive estimations during GPS-enabled workouts, removing the need for the previous six-minute walking test.
What is the Cardio Effort metric based on?
The Cardio Effort metric is based on the Training Impulse method and assesses strain against the user's baseline.
