A near-constant $\dot{\text{V}}{\text{O}}_2$ despite a further increase in work rate (= $\dot{\text{V}}{\text{O}}_2\text{pl}$) indicates attainment of $\dot{\text{V}}{\text{O}}_{2max}$; however, not all participants demonstrate a $\dot{\text{V}}{\text{O}}_2\text{pl}$ at the end of an incremental test.

There is lack of convincing evidence to show that the incidence of the $\dot{\text{V}}{\text{O}}_2\text{pl}$ is influenced by exercise mode, exercise protocol, aerobic fitness, anthropometrics, or age.

Preliminary evidence indicates that a fast $\dot{\text{V}}{\text{O}}_2$ -kinetics as well as a high anaerobic capacity and anaerobic threshold related to $\dot{\text{V}}{\text{O}}_{2max}$ seem to increase the chance that a plateau at $\dot{\text{V}}{\text{O}}_{2max}$ occurs.