What is the lactate threshold?

The lactate threshold refers specifically to the exercise intensity at which lactate begins to accumulate in the blood, indicating that the body’s metabolic processes are shifting. It marks a critical point during exercise where there is an imbalance between lactate production and clearance. As exercise intensity increases, the body relies on anaerobic metabolism, leading to lactate being produced faster than it can be removed. This accumulation can signal a transition from primarily aerobic energy production to a greater reliance on anaerobic pathways, which typically happens at about 50-70% of an individual's VO2 max, depending on training and conditioning levels.

Understanding lactate threshold is crucial for athletes and trainers because it helps in setting training intensities for improving performance. Training just below or at the lactate threshold can enhance an athlete's endurance and increase the intensity at which they can perform without fatiguing rapidly. This physiological marker is essential for designing effective training regimens aimed at improving endurance and overall athletic performance.