Lactate Threshold Testing

The Lactate Threshold test is a graded exercise test that is designed to pinpoint the exact exercise intensity at which lactic acid starts to accumulate in the blood. This accumulation marks the movement from aerobic metabolism to anaerobic metabolism and a shift from a mixed fuel source (fats, proteins, and carbs) to one that is primarily carbohydrate in nature.

Knowing the exact exercise intensity (wattage, pace, heart rate) in which the body moves from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism allows for more specific training loads and workout prescriptions. This allows for better pacing and body awareness during competitive events (e.g. time trials, marathons, triathlons, etc.).

Lactate Threshold Testing can help you:

• Establish a concrete fitness score that allows for proper long term tracking of fitness from season to season
• Allow athletes to see gains that have been made or determine if changes are required in their exercise program to perform better
• Training within this specific threshold level allows for better pre- and post-workout nutritional practice
• Athletes will be more aware of specific fuels that were burned during workouts, allowing them that competitive edge necessary to take it to the next level