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Metabolic Testing

Train Smarter. Fuel Precisely. Perform Better.

Whether you’re a recreational athlete, endurance competitor, or trying to lose weight without guesswork, our VO₂ Max and Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) testing will give you the exact data you need to succeed.

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What Is Metabolic Testing?

Metabolic Testing at Quest includes two powerful assessments:

VO₂ Max Testing

Measures your body’s ability to consume oxygen during exercise, pinpointing your aerobic and anaerobic thresholds, heart rate training zones, and fat vs. carbohydrate utilization. This test is ideal for optimizing training, performance, and fat-burning.

Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) Testing

Measures how many calories your body burns at rest—essential for setting accurate daily calorie targets. RMR testing provides insight into your metabolism and helps prevent under-fueling, low energy availability (LEA), or unexplained weight plateaus.

Who Should Get Tested?

VO₂ Max Testing is for you if you:

  • Want to stop guessing and train in the right zones
  • Are hitting plateaus despite consistent effort
  • Want to burn more fat during workouts
  • Need to dial in pacing and fuel strategies for racing
  • Are returning to training after injury or a long break

RMR Testing is for you if you:

  • Struggle to lose weight despite “doing everything right”
  • Suspect you may be under-eating or over-restricting
  • Want a precise calorie target to maintain or lose weight without damaging your metabolism
  • Are recovering from RED-S, LEA, or disordered eating
  • Have reached a plateau and want to troubleshoot it scientifically

Why It Matters

Because One-Size-Fits-All Doesn't Work.

Most “target heart rate” charts and calorie calculators are based on general population averages. They don’t account for your unique physiology. Metabolic testing gives you:

  • Precision data, not estimates
  • Customized training zones to maximize endurance and fat-burning
  • Personalized fueling strategies for training and daily life
  • Clear insights to support weight loss, performance, or recovery goals

How the Tests Work

VO₂ Max Test

  • Conducted on a treadmill or bike (You can use your bike if you have a power meter or power pedals. If not, we’ll set you up on the Wahoo Kickr Bike.)
  • You’ll wear a mask and heart rate monitor (chest strap)
  • We gradually increase intensity until you reach your peak effort
  • We’ll discuss with you and generate a report to email you with:
    • VO₂ Max score
    • Aerobic and anaerobic thresholds
    • Heart rate training zones
    • Fat vs. carbohydrate burn by intensity

RMR Test

  • 15-minute seated breath test
  • You relax and breathe normally through a tube held in your mouth while wearing a nose plug
  • We calculate your personal resting calorie burn
  • You’ll receive:
    • Daily calorie needs for weight maintenance and weight loss
    • Warnings if you’re under-eating or at risk for muscle loss
    • A clear plan to support long-term weight success

What You'll Walk Away With

  • VO₂ Max Report with personalized training zones and fuel utilization data
  • RMR Report with caloric needs for performance, weight loss, and maintenance
  • Expert guidance from our performance team to apply your results to training and nutrition immediately

Stop Guessing. Start Measuring.

Book your metabolic test today and take the guesswork out of training, weight loss, and performance.

📞 Call us or book online
🔬 Testing available on-site at Quest Health & Performance
📍 Serving runners, cyclists, and triathletes across Knoxville, East Tennessee, and the Southeast

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