What is Lactate?

It is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism, produced when the body breaks down glucose for energy during high-intensity exercise. While it’s often misunderstood as the cause of muscle fatigue, lactate is an important fuel source. However, excessive accumulation indicates that your body struggles to clear it efficiently, leading to a decline in performance.

Why Do a Lactate Test?

A lactate threshold test helps determine the intensity at which lactate starts to accumulate faster than it can be cleared. Knowing your lactate threshold allows you to:
• Set precise training zones – Improve endurance and avoid overtraining.
• Optimize pacing strategies – Run or cycle at your most efficient speed.
• Measure fitness progress – Track improvements in endurance and intensity tolerance.

How to Use Lactate Test Results in Training and Racing

Based on your test results, you can adjust your training and race approach:
• Increase endurance: Train below your lactate threshold to improve efficiency and delay fatigue.
• Boost speed and power: Elevate threshold and high-intensity interval training to raise lactate tolerance.
• Fine-tune race pacing: Use your lactate threshold pace to avoid starting too fast and burning out early.

Lactate testing provides a data-driven approach to training, helping athletes train smarter and achieve peak performance. Consider incorporating it into your routine to enhance your endurance and race-day strategy.