Increasing the Value of Gamefowl: Boosting VO2 Max (Ep. 3)

Increasing the Value of Gamefowl: Boosting VO2 Max (Ep. 3)
By Asst. Prof. Dr. Somphoth Weerakul (Mor Kaew)

Following the previous article on the principles of HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), which can be adapted based on each owner's preference, this article will explore the factors that help increase $VO_{2}max$. Boosting this value enhances oxygen utilization efficiency, making the fowl more durable and resilient. Furthermore, proper HIIT training will result in increased agility and speed.


1. Genetics, Environment, and Lifestyle
The most influential factor in how efficiently oxygen is converted into energy is breed. A bird from a superior lineage is born with a "gift"—the ability to deliver oxygen to tissues more effectively than other breeds. Choosing chicks from high-quality parents increases the chances of having a top-tier fowl in the future.

In humans, it has been found that certain African populations possess a higher capacity for oxygen utilization and greater muscle endurance. This is linked to the environment and lifestyle, which are believed to influence genetic adaptation. A study by Carla M. Calò & Giuseppe Vona (2008) titled "Gene polymorphisms and elite athletic performance" published in the Journal of Anthropological Sciences found that specific genes correlate with athletic ability.

Some studies found that Kenyans hold an advantage; $VO_{2}max$ values in Kenyan youth (ages 10-16) were as high as 73.9 for boys and 61.5 ml/kg/min for girls. However, H.B. Larsen et al. (2015) in the journal Scand J Med Sci Sports noted that while Kenyans are suited for middle-to-long distance running, there was no significant difference in $VO_{2}max$ between elite Kenyans and elite runners of other ethnicities. Interestingly, elite Kenyan runners showed signs of arterial hypoxia (low blood oxygen) or limited airflow during peak performance. This "negative" trait might actually be a natural adaptation—since they often live at high altitudes where oxygen is sparse, their bodies have evolved to be hyper-efficient at utilizing the limited oxygen available. When they compete at normal altitudes, this efficiency translates into superior performance.

2. Development of the Circulatory System
High levels of hemoglobin in red blood cells—the primary oxygen transporters—provide a natural advantage. Individuals living at high altitudes under low-oxygen conditions are stimulated to produce more hemoglobin to maintain efficient oxygen delivery and carbon dioxide removal. This process is supported by nutrients like Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12, which are essential components for hemoglobin synthesis.

3. Muscle Development During Growth
The number of muscle fibers is determined during the growth phase. In both humans and animals, this number is influenced by health and nutrition during early life and remains fixed once they reach a certain age.

In humans: The first year of life is critical.
In gamefowl: Raising chicks and fledglings is vital. High fiber counts lead to higher myoglobin levels (the protein that stores oxygen in muscles).
To maximize muscle fiber count, the diet must be balanced with high protein, fats, minerals, and vitamins. While high protein is necessary for muscle building, I do not recommend using whey protein during the growth stage; instead, use balanced feeds that are naturally high in protein and healthy fats.

4. Capillary Density
Training stimulates the growth of capillaries (tiny blood vessels) that supply the muscles. Not only do existing vessels become stronger and larger, but the total number of capillaries increases. Studies in Guinea fowl have shown that an increase in capillary density is directly correlated with higher $VO_{2}max$ values.

5. Nutrition and Blood Flow Stimulants
Various nutrients help transport oxygen from the blood to the muscles by improving heart function and reducing peripheral vascular resistance (widening the blood vessels).

Nitric Oxide: Stimulates vasodilation (widening of vessels), making oxygen delivery smoother.
Innovative Supplements: Products like "Racing Bird" (often referred to as "dope" in the community) or "Booster" (often called "Nok Bin") are used to reduce vascular resistance, allowing the heart to pump blood more easily without overworking.
Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin B3 aids circulation. Vegetables like Chinese cabbage and lettuce are rich in Vitamins B and E, which, when combined with Selenium, strengthen muscles and aid liver detoxification. Omega-3 (found in fish oil from salmon, mackerel, or anchovies) significantly supports heart health.
6. The Role of Herbs
There is significant interest in using herbs to enhance circulation. Some examples include:

Bacopa (Prommi), Black Pepper, Butcher’s Broom, Cayenne, Chickweed, Ginger, Centella Asiatica (Bua Bok), Hawthorn (Sanja), Ginkgo Biloba, Thyme, Ginseng, and Turmeric.
Historically, Yohimbe bark (from West Africa) and Horny Goat Weed (from China) have been used. Traditional Thai herbal formulas also offer many effective options.
7. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy and massage are also excellent methods for improving circulatory efficiency and ensuring oxygen reaches the target tissues.


Summary: There are many avenues for enhancing a gamefowl's performance beyond just physical exercise. By optimizing blood circulation and oxygen delivery through genetics, nutrition, and supplemental care, you can significantly increase the bird's stamina and power.