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. Efficiency
  VO2 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 Max
  Why your ventilatory (or lactate) threshold may be a more practical measure of performance than VO2 max alone.

• Lessons from the Sub-2 Hour Marathon
  What the historic attempt taught us about oxygen uptake, training zones, and human potential.

• Longevity and VO2 Max
  Does 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 Max
  How 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Derek Clayton broke the marathon world record in 1969 - one of 14 career victories. In this podcast, Dr André La Gerche and Derek discuss his amazing career, marathon training in the 60s, and how Derek's cardiology has evolved.

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Dr André La Gerche discusses COVID, vaccines and its affect on athlete.

The conversation in this podcast does not represent official medical advice and does not represent the official position of St Vincent’s Hospital, the Baker Institute or St Vincent’s Institute. Athletes and members of the community are advised to discuss their individual circumstances with their treating doctor. This podcast may provide some discussion points and is designed to raise awareness about COVID immunity, vaccination and some specific aspects related to sports participation. We are aware that some of the suggestions, particularly related to advice in those with mild vaccine related side-effects differ from some official guidelines. We are also aware that circumstances and evidence are changing rapidly and some of the content of this podcast may be validated with time or be proven incorrect. At the time of recording, this content in this podcast represents general advice provided by A/Prof Andre La Gerche and is designed to raise awareness of some important exercise-related aspects arising during the current pandemic. 

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Georgia Baker is a professional road cyclist, two-time Olympian, Commonwealth Games gold medalist, and track World Champion.

During this podcast, Georgia and Dr. Maria Brosnan discuss the tragic passing of her father from a heart attack and overcoming her own heart condition, Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).

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Episode two of the Racing Heart podcast welcomes the 2016 Paris-Roubaix winner Mathew Hayman. Matt spent 19 years at the highest level of world cycling which included his amazing 2016 Paris-Roubaix victory - see footage of the race below. He’s joined by Dr André La Gerche to discuss heart palpitations, the challenge it poses for an athlete, how an athlete's heart evolves, and the research Matt is currently a part of.

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The National Centre For Sports Cardiology (NCSC) is a joint initiative between the Baker Institute, St Vincent’s Hospital, and the St Vincent’s Institute that is delving into the deeper workings of an athlete’s most important tool; their heart. 

In this episode we discuss Sudden Cardiac Death with world-leading heart specialists, Associate Professor David Prior, Dr Maria Brosnan, Dr André La Gerche.

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