In this episode, Angela sits down with Ulrich Dempfle, co-founder and CEO of CAROL Bike, to uncover the science and innovation behind one of the most time-efficient ways to boost VO₂ max, metabolic health, and brain function.
In this episode, Angela sits down with Ulrich Dempfle, co-founder and CEO of CAROL Bike, to uncover the science and innovation behind one of the most time-efficient ways to boost VO₂ max, metabolic health, and brain function.
Ulrich explains why VO₂ max is the most important marker for longevity, how it declines without training, and how short, AI-guided REHIT sprints boost mitochondria, BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), and cardiovascular fitness in just minutes.
He also breaks down how Reduced-Exertion High-Intensity Interval Training (REHIT) works, why traditional zone 2 training doesn’t work for everyone, and how gamification and real-time performance data make staying consistent easier than ever.
The High-Performance Health Podcast is all about optimising your body, mind and lifestyle for high performance.
Packed full of actionable insights, strategies, bio hacks, lifestyle hacks, mindset strategies and expert performance advice, Angela Foster is on a mission to optimise your human potential. Featuring interviews with some of the top experts on the planet in the fields of health, performance and business, this show aims to inspire, educate and empower you to live an energetic, healthful and limitless life.
00:00 Intro & The Importance of VO₂ Max
01:00 How VO₂ Max Declines and Why It Matters
04:22 Zone 2 Training Myths & Non-Responders
09:09 Mitochondria 101: Density vs. Efficiency
12:00 The Science Behind REHIT & CAROL Bike
19:09 Gamification, Dopamine & Workout Adherence
22:02 Lactate, BDNF & Brain Health Benefits
26:04 Insulin Sensitivity & Metabolic Effects
30:17 Efficient Weekly Training Structure
34:51 Afterburn Effect & Fat Oxidation Misconceptions
45:00 VO₂ Max Testing & Fitness Score Tracking
52:00 Peer-Reviewed Research & AI Personalisation
57:30 Real-World VO₂ Max Improvements
1:01:00 How to Get Started & Special Listener Offer
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Ulrich Dempfle is the CEO and co-founder of CAROL Bike, the world’s first Reduced Exertion HIIT (REHIT) exercise bike. Originally trained as a mechanical engineer in Germany, Ulrich began his career in the automotive industry before moving to the UK to pioneer AI in healthcare systems.
After discovering REHIT through a BBC documentary, he partnered with leading exercise scientists to bring this lab-based protocol to the public. Today, Ulrich leads CAROL’s product development, combining science, data, and technology to deliver the most time-efficient cardio workout.
CAROL website: https://carolbike.com/
Find CAROL Bike on all platforms @theCAROLbike
Angela Foster is an award winning Nutritionist, Health & Performance Coach, Keynote Speaker and Host of The High Performance Health Podcast.
A former corporate lawyer turned industry leader in biohacking and health optimisation for women, Angela regularly gives keynotes to large fitness, health and wellness events including the Health Optimisation summit, The Biohacker summit, Dragonfly live, Elevate Fitness conference and Gaia TV. She also delivers Health Optimisation and Performance Workshops to large multinational corporations and senior leaders with a strong focus on women’s health and burnout prevention.
Angela is also the creator of BioSyncing® a blueprint for high performing women who want to ditch burnout, harmonise their hormones and elevate their life.

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