How to Prepare for DEXA, VO₂ Max & RMR Tests

Before your appointment

Prepare once. Test with confidence.

Clear, test-specific instructions for your BodyStats DEXA, VO₂ Max or resting metabolic rate appointment.

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DEXA scanner at the BodyStats Toronto studioDEXA
Client completing a VO2 Max test at BodyStatsVO₂ Max
Client reclining during a BodyStats resting metabolic rate testRMR

The short version

Start with the instructions for the test you booked.

DEXA

Hydrate normally. Fast for 2–3 hours if possible and wear light clothing without metal.

VO₂ Max

Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours. Skip caffeine and heavy meals on test day.

RMR

Fast for 2–3 hours. Avoid strenuous exercise for 6–8 hours and skip caffeine or pre-workout.

DEXA scanner at the BodyStats Toronto studio

01 · Body composition

DEXA preparation

The goal is consistency. Similar hydration, clothing and meal timing from scan to scan make your trends easier to compare.

Best repeat-scan habit: book a similar time of day and wear the same light outfit whenever possible.
  • 1
    Hydrate normally

    Drink your usual amount of water, but avoid excessive fluids immediately before your appointment.

  • 2
    Fast for 2–3 hours if possible

    A short fasting window helps keep conditions consistent. Plain water is fine.

  • 3
    Wear light, minimal clothing

    Choose athletic clothing without metal zippers, snaps or underwire.

  • 4
    Remove metal items

    Take off jewelry and watches and empty your pockets before the scan. Non-removable metal is okay—tell your technician.

  • 5
    Arrive at your appointment time

    Your full visit is usually 15–20 minutes, including check-in and the scan.

Client wearing a VO2 Master mask during a BodyStats VO2 Max test

02 · Cardiovascular fitness

VO₂ Max preparation

Arrive rested and ready for a maximal effort. Training fatigue, stimulants and a heavy meal can affect how your heart rate and performance respond.

No fasting is required for a VO₂ Max-only appointment. If your visit also includes RMR, follow the RMR fasting instructions.
  • 1
    Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours

    Keep the two days before your appointment light so you arrive recovered.

  • 2
    Skip caffeine on test day

    Coffee, energy drinks and pre-workout can elevate heart rate.

  • 3
    Avoid a heavy meal beforehand

    You do not need to fast, but choose a lighter meal and allow time to digest.

  • 4
    Wear athletic clothing and footwear

    Bring shoes appropriate for the treadmill or bike option shown in UltraBook for your location.

  • 5
    Plan for about 20–30 minutes

    Your visit includes setup, a warm-up, the progressive test and a brief cooldown.

Want a baseline first? Try the free VO₂ Max calculator.

Client resting quietly during a BodyStats RMR test

03 · Resting metabolism

RMR preparation

The best measurement comes from the calmest version of you—rested, unstimulated and no longer digesting a recent meal.

Arrive 10 minutes early. This gives your breathing and heart rate time to settle before the measurement begins.
  • 1
    Avoid strenuous exercise for 6–8 hours

    Post-exercise oxygen consumption can keep your metabolic rate elevated.

  • 2
    Fast for 2–3 hours

    Eating temporarily increases calorie burn through digestion. Plain water is fine and encouraged.

  • 3
    Skip caffeine and pre-workout

    Stimulants can raise your resting rate and make it harder to settle.

  • 4
    Wear comfortable clothing

    You will recline quietly and breathe normally through a soft mask for about 20 minutes.

  • 5
    Plan for about 30 minutes

    Allow time for intake, mask fitting, the measurement and a brief results walkthrough.

More than one test

Follow the strictest instructions in your visit.

If you booked a package or multiple tests together, one simple preparation plan covers all three.

For a combined appointment

  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours beforehand.
  • Fast for 2–3 hours before arriving; plain water is fine.
  • Skip caffeine, energy drinks and pre-workout on test day.
  • Wear light, metal-free athletic clothing and appropriate footwear.
  • Arrive 10 minutes early so your resting measurements can settle.

Common questions

Before you arrive

Can I drink water before my test?

Yes. Plain water is fine for DEXA, VO₂ Max and RMR testing. Hydrate normally and avoid excessive fluids immediately before a DEXA scan.

What if I accidentally ate or had caffeine?

Your appointment may still be possible, but the result could be less representative—especially for RMR. Contact BodyStats before travelling if you are unsure.

What should I wear?

Light athletic clothing works for all three tests. For DEXA, avoid metal zippers, snaps and underwire. For VO₂ Max, wear appropriate athletic footwear.

Can I complete several tests in one visit?

Yes. Follow the combined-appointment checklist above so you meet the strictest preparation requirement for every test in your booking.

Where can I confirm my location and appointment time?

Your confirmation email contains the booked location and time. You can also view upcoming appointments in your BodyStats Dashboard.

Vancouver · Toronto

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