I thought I'd add this as a sticky since it comes up a lot.

Your vo2max test must come from running for it to apply to running (i.e.,
a cycling test won't really be of use for analyzing your running fitness).
Indeed from a vo2max test you should make sure you get the following:

1. The values of RQ (aka RER, or just R) for each step of the test, along with the associated heart rate.
2. Your heart rate at RQ = .78
3. Your heart rate at RQ = .85
4. Your heart rate at RQ = 1.0

The test needs to bring your RQ at least to the point of 1 (yes, that's redundant)
Hopefully the test will take you beyond the vo2max point
Hopefully the test will take you to a maximal heart rate (assuming you're fit
for such a test).
Hopefully you can get an RQ vs heart rate curve to observe the inflection point, and hopefully
that point lies between .78 and .85!

If they just give you some training zones and a measure or estimate of vo2max, it's
not of significant value.

Here is a link to an RQ test (and discussion) I took in September, 2009. It includes some informative posts by Dr. Phil Maffetone. Make sure to ask the tester if the test measures carbon dioxide (RQ) and heart rate. The deflection point on my test coincided with the current MAF being used (128 bpm). The deflection was around 128-130 bpm. It represents a slight shift in energy systems. Below the MAF, you are using aerobic fibers, and above, you are starting to recruit anaerobic fibers.

 

 

To add to the above information by Jesse. The first two suggestions were given by Dr. Phil:

 

--make sure to warm-up before starting your test. If your test is anything like mine, they get right to it. What is considered warm-up is the first 6-8 minutes of the test, which most likely will bring you beyond your MAF. This can elongate the aerobic deflection point, which coincides with, or represents,  your MAF. Insist on  warming up.

 

--ask how long the test is going to be. You're better off knowing up front.

 

--stop when you want to. The RQ scale runs between .7 and 1.0. In my first test, the tester pushed me beyond the 1.0 to test anaerobic capacity. I went as long as possible, reaching my maximum heart rate and staying there until I couldn't go on. If you don't want to go past 1.0, then don't do it. All you really find out is an aproximate MHR, and how long you can sprint while your heart is pounding out of your chest. That may or may not be valuable to you. If not, just have the tester tell you when you reach 1.0, then stop and do a cool-down. Your Anaerobic threshold is around 1.0, that may be valuable.

 

 

Here is a locator for RQ testing facilities.

 

Have fun!

--Jimmy