Why is lactate often considered a performance-limiting factor during exercise?

Lactate is often associated with the body's anaerobic metabolism during intense exercise. As exercise intensity increases, and when the oxygen supply to the muscles is insufficient for aerobic energy production, the body resorts to anaerobic glycolysis, which leads to the production of lactate. The accumulation of lactate in the muscles and blood can result in acidosis, where the pH level decreases, leading to muscle fatigue. This acidosis interferes with the contractile function of muscles and can impair performance by reducing the muscles' ability to generate force and sustain high-intensity activities.

Furthermore, the presence of high levels of lactate is linked with discomfort and fatigue during exercise, which can limit an athlete's ability to continue exerting effort. Hence, alleviating the effects of lactate accumulation is crucial for maintaining performance, making it a significant factor in exercise physiology and performance outcomes.