658: The most efficient path to better cardio | sports scientist Fraser Thurlow, Ph.D.

658: The most efficient path to better cardio | sports scientist Fraser Thurlow, Ph.D.

July 12, 2026 · 53 min · Episode 658

About this episode

Fraser Thurlow discusses efficient strategies for improving cardio fitness through high-intensity interval training.

"When it comes to high-intensity interval training work, quality is much more important than quantity,” says Fraser Thurlow, Ph.D.  Thurlow is a high-performance coach, researcher, and lecturer with over a decade of experience helping people improve their fitness and performance. He holds a PhD in Human Performance, has published extensively on training, and has lectured at leading Australian universities in sport and exercise science. His work focuses on translating science into practical, evidence-based strategies that improve health, fitness, and athletic performance. 00:00 - How to actually raise your VO2 max 05:26 - Long vs short interval training 09:00 - Heart rate vs. perceived exertion 11:13 - Accurately monitoring heart rate  13:12 - The sprint interval training protocol 19:07 - A sample weekly plan 23:58 - Working exercise into the day-to-day 28:24 - Making the most out of supersets 31:58 - VO2 max mistakes 34:32 - How to train for HYROX 39:17 - Foot strength & barefoot lifting 43:37 - Overrated & underrated fitness 45:35 - Fraser's sprint research 50:40 - VO2 max vs. muscle for longevity Referenced in the episode:  For more about Thurlow & his personal…

People in this episode

Host: mindbodygreen

Guest: Fraser Thurlow, Ph.D.

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Australian universities

Books & works: Jan Helgerud sprint study, Vollaard analysis of VO2 max studies

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