Science & Tech · Gadgets & EVs · 11 hrs ago
Oura adds workout effort and VO₂ max tracking to its smart rings
Oura is adding two fitness metrics to its smart rings: Cardio Effort and VO₂ max estimates.
The features are for Oura Ring Gen3 and newer models, with VO₂ max available through Oura Labs.
Cardio Effort shows how much workouts strain a person's cardiovascular system, both individually and across a week.
Its weekly levels range from Light to Reaching and are based on each user's activity patterns and personal baseline.
VO₂ max estimates how the body uses oxygen during exercise, a measure of cardiovascular fitness that has often required a lab or walking test.
Oura says it can now estimate the value from GPS-enabled workouts; users need five qualifying activities for an initial estimate.
The new metrics add more detail to Oura's workout tracking as competition in the smart ring market grows.
Oura announced two new workout metrics for its smart rings: Cardio Effort and VO₂ max.
Cardio Effort assesses cardiovascular strain during workouts and compares weekly effort with a user’s personal baseline.
The metric places weekly effort in one of five ranges: Light, Fair, Maintaining, Building or Reaching.
Oura will estimate VO₂ max passively from GPS-enabled workouts, removing the need for a six-minute walking test.
Both features are for Oura Ring Gen3 and later models, while VO₂ max is available through Oura Labs.
- Who
- Oura is adding the features for users with Oura Ring Gen3 and newer devices.
- What
- The company is introducing Cardio Effort and VO₂ max tracking.
- When
- Oura announced the features on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
- Where
- The features are being added to Oura’s smart ring experience; VO₂ max is available in Oura Labs.
- Why
- Oura says the metrics will give users more insight into workout effort and long-term fitness.
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- New metrics
- Cardio Effort and VO₂ max
- Cardio Effort ranges
- Light, Fair, Maintaining, Building, Reaching
- VO₂ max estimate
- After five qualifying activities
- Eligible devices
- Oura Ring Gen3 and later
- VO₂ max location
- Oura Labs
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How many minutes did I move?
Am I maintaining my fitness, building it, or overdoing it?