What aspect of exercise testing is considered low in individuals with CFS?

In individuals with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) is often found to be lower compared to healthy individuals. VO2 max is a critical measure of aerobic capacity and endurance, reflecting the body’s ability to take in and utilize oxygen during prolonged physical activity. People with CFS frequently experience significant limitations in their physical exertion, leading to a reduced ability to perform sustained exercise. This diminished capacity can result from various factors associated with CFS, including muscle fatigue, reduced aerobic fitness, and metabolic dysfunctions. Consequently, exercise testing tends to reveal lower values for maximal oxygen consumption in this population, helping to clarify the physiological impact of the condition on their physical performance.