Lactate Threshold

Service Description

*This test takes approximately 60-75 minutes; 105 min session includes set up and analysis after session* A lactate threshold test measures the intensity of exercise at which your body starts producing lactate faster than it can clear it, leading to its accumulation in the blood. This threshold is a critical marker of endurance performance, as it determines the maximum sustainable intensity you can maintain for extended periods. How It Works: Progressive Exercise Test The athlete performs gradually increasing levels of intensity, such as running on a treadmill or cycling on a stationary bike. Lactate Sampling At each intensity level, a small blood sample (usually from a fingertip or earlobe) is taken to measure lactate concentration. Threshold Identification The point where blood lactate levels rise sharply indicates the lactate threshold, often expressed as a percentage of your maximum heart rate or power output. Why Test Your Lactate Threshold? Train Smarter: Pinpoint the optimal intensity zones for endurance and tempo training. Enhance Performance: Delay lactate accumulation to sustain higher intensities for longer. Monitor Progress: Track improvements in lactate threshold over time to assess fitness gains. Individualized Insights: Tailor training plans based on personalized physiological data. The lactate threshold is one of the most reliable indicators of endurance performance and is commonly used by competitive athletes to fine-tune their training programs.