Cardio Effort evaluates the tax placed on a user's heart by comparing activity intensity and duration against individual baselines, rather than relying on generic maximum heart rate estimates. By categorizing weekly effort into levels ranging from Light to Reaching, the system helps users determine whether they are effectively building fitness or risking overexertion. This metric operates by evaluating both individual workout impact and aggregated weekly totals.
In section Startups & Technology
Oura bolsters smart ring competition with new cardiovascular metrics
Facing mounting pressure from rivals like RingConn and Ultrahuman, Oura is expanding its fitness tracking capabilities. The company announced Tuesday the rollout of Cardio Effort and VO₂ max metrics for its Gen3 and later ring models, shifting the focus from simple activity duration to long-term cardiovascular health and physiological impact.
Simultaneously, Oura is introducing VO₂ max estimates to track how effectively a user’s body utilizes oxygen during exercise. Previously requiring clinical testing, this feature now functions passively through GPS-enabled workouts. After five qualifying activities, users receive an estimate in ml/kg/min within the My Health Heart Hub. While Cardio Effort provides immediate feedback on daily strain, VO₂ max serves as a long-term indicator of cardiovascular health. These experimental features are currently available to members through Oura Labs, marking a strategic attempt to differentiate the brand in an increasingly crowded wearable market.
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