How to use the vdot calculator
Prepare the values for this calculation
Estimate Daniels–Gilbert VDOT from a recent race distance and finishing time. Use the formula below to check that it answers your question. Read the input units before transferring figures from a statement, measurement or dataset.
Enter and check each input
- Race distance (m): enter a value at least 100 and no more than 100000. Use the unit named in the label or selected above. Do not leave this required field blank.
- Race time — minutes: enter a value at least 1 and no more than 1440. Use the unit named in the label or selected above. Do not leave this required field blank.
- Additional seconds: enter a value at least 0 and no more than 59.999. Use the unit named in the label or selected above. Do not leave this required field blank.
The input table gives a complete example. Keep units and time periods consistent across related fields.
Calculate and resolve any input error
Choose Calculate after entering the values. Changes also update the answer after a short pause. If an error appears, follow its message, correct the field and calculate again. Reset restores the example values.
Interpret the answer
Check Estimated VDOT first. With the unchanged example inputs, it is 45.26. Compare the additional metrics with the primary result; each has its own label and unit.
Compare and keep a useful result
For a controlled comparison, keep every other example input unchanged and change Race distance (m) from 10000 to 11000. The resulting Estimated VDOT is 50.92. This illustrates the equation’s response to that input, rather than a forecast of real events.
Read the chart’s axis labels and data table. A scenario curve changes one stated input while holding the others fixed; it does not add external observations. Use Download graph to save an available chart as a PNG.
Use Copy result or Download CSV to keep the answer. Share tool shares the page address without placing your input values in the URL. Recheck inputs and assumptions before using the result for a decision.
VDOT Calculator formula
v = distance ÷ time (m/min); VO₂ cost = −4.60 + 0.182258v + 0.000104v²; sustainable fraction = 0.8 + 0.1894393e^(−0.012778t) + 0.2989558e^(−0.1932605t); VDOT = VO₂ cost ÷ fraction.
Inputs and units
| Input | Format / range | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Race distance (m) | minimum 100; maximum 100000 | 10000 |
| Race time — minutes | minimum 1; maximum 1440 | 45 |
| Additional seconds | minimum 0; maximum 59.999 | 0 |
Worked example
Using the example inputs above, the estimated vdot is 45.26.
- Estimated VDOT
- 45.26
- Race velocity
- 222.22 m/min
- Modeled oxygen cost
- 41.04 mL/kg/min
- Modeled sustainable fraction
- 0.9066
Results and assumptions
VDOT is a race-performance index derived from the Daniels–Gilbert model. It is not a direct laboratory VO₂max measurement and does not adjust for heat, altitude, hills, wind, course accuracy or pacing.
Sources and method references
Fix an input or unexpected result
Race distance (m) is required. Enter race distance (m) using the format and bounds in the input table. Zero and an empty field are different: use zero only if it is allowed and represents your data.
If your answer differs from the example, choose Reset and compare every field, including selected units and options. Check percentage versus decimal entry and whether values describe the same period. Round only the final displayed answer when reproducing the formula.
If a discrepancy remains, report the calculator issue with the page address, non-sensitive example inputs, actual result, expected result and a reference for your calculation.