About us: V̇ital Fitness Testing, LLC | V̇FIT
Where we truly believe that there is Strength In Numbers.
Hi! I am Dr. Jim Ziegler, better known as Dr. Z. I have had a long career as a pediatric cardiologist. I didn’t learn much about exercise during my training, but when I moved to Rhode Island to work at Hasbro Children’s Hospital as an attending pediatric cardiologist, I taught myself exercise physiology and built a state-of-the-art pediatric cardiopulmonary lab. I have run that lab for the past 30 years.
Why is metabolic stress testing important?
Results of metabolic stress testing are useful across several domains including gauging overall wellness; assessing fitness level and performance potential; and developing a plan of action to improve functional status. The “holy grail” of such testing is V̇O2 max, probably the single most predictive parameter of overall wellness, longevity, and fitness potential. Other maximal and sub-maximal exercise measures allow for fine-tuning one’s exercise/fitness plan.
Our adage, “strength in numbers,” is applicable to individuals of all ages and all fitness levels. It doesn’t matter if you are new to exercise, interested in knowing your baseline before beginning an exercise program, or a competitive athlete chasing your best performance, knowledge of your “numbers” will improve your chance of success. We will tailor your testing and report to help you achieve your goals.
Is this a Medical Business?
No! Although metabolic stress testing is available in academic medical centers and very helpful in managing patients with cardiopulmonary disorders, V̇ital Fitness Testing LLC is specifically geared toward helping healthy individuals interested in wellness and recreational and competitive athletes intent on optimizing their performance.
A few notes about the owner
Dr. Z is a board-certified pediatric cardiologist who built and ran a busy cardiopulmonary laboratory at a local children’s hospital for 25 years. A former college athlete and lifetime fitness enthusiast, he is passionate about wellness, preventive cardiology, exercise, and exercise physiology. His philosophy is “get out there, hit the pavement, sweat a little, make it happen.”
He truly believes (and data back this up) that there is no other single habit you can develop to improve your physical and mental well-being and live longer and fuller lives. Dr. Z is a long-time resident of North Kingstown. He loves the Wickford area and can frequently be spotted running and biking its roads and trails, usually with his wife and/or one or both of his daughters.
