VO₂ Max Testing With Vital Fitness Testing

Business: Vital Fitness Testing
Location: 23 Brown St. Suite 115, Wickford, RI
Website: https://www.vitalfitnesstesting.com/
Contact: vitalfitnesstesting@gmail.com

Vital Fitness Testing is a metabolic (VO₂ max) stress testing service located on the harbor in historic Wickford village. This business represents the culmination of a dream held by its founder, Dr. James Ziegler, a pediatric cardiologist who built and runs the cardiopulmonary laboratory at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. Vital Fitness Testing opened its doors in November 2025 with the core concept that exercise is the best medicine.  Their motto is that there is “strength in numbers” when it comes to optimizing fitness and improving general health and wellness.

At Vital Fitness Testing, exercise is performed using customized protocols on a cycle ergometer or a treadmill. The test subject wears a comfortable form-fitting mask and, after warming up, gradually exercises to maximal exertion. The mask allows for collection of each inhaled and exhaled breath. By measuring the amount of oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide produced, a number of cardiac and pulmonary variables can be defined. These variables allow for assessment of maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂ max), the single most important determinant of aerobic (cardio) fitness and predictive measure of general wellness, lifespan, healthspan, freedom from chronic disease, and long term functional status. For recreational and competitive athletes, different thresholds can be ascertained, allowing for precise breakdown of heart rate zones to fine-tune training.

The vibe at Vital Fitness Testing is supportive and positive. A top priority is for customers to leave empowered. Sessions are scheduled for one hour with detailed intake, provision of customized exercise protocols matched to current fitness level, exercise warm up, testing, cool-down, and then a breakdown of results. A detailed written report is then e-mailed within 48 hours of testing. Return visits are discounted, and they are kid and pet friendly. They encourage bringing one or more cheerleaders! You can check out their website at vitalfitnesstesting.com or their socials @vitalfitnesstesting for more information. You can also e-mail them at vitalfitnesstesting@gmail.com.