How can an individual assess their cardiovascular fitness level?

Assessing cardiovascular fitness levels is best achieved through methods that evaluate the efficiency of the heart, lungs, and muscles during physical activity. The VO2 max test, for example, measures the maximum volume of oxygen that an individual can utilize during intense exercise, making it a definitive indicator of cardiovascular endurance. A timed run is also effective because it gauges how quickly an individual can complete a specific distance, reflecting their cardiovascular stamina and efficiency. Both methods provide objective data about the capacity of the cardiovascular system, making option B the most appropriate choice for assessing fitness levels.

In contrast, measuring body temperature during exercise does not provide direct information about cardiovascular fitness. Recording the number of calories burned gives insight into energy expenditure but does not reflect cardiovascular efficiency or endurance. Using a heart rate monitor during stretching is helpful for monitoring heart rate but does not effectively measure cardiovascular fitness in a meaningful way as it primarily focuses on static flexibility rather than dynamic cardiovascular performance.