Methodological approach to the first and second lactate threshold in incremental cardiopulmonary exercise testing

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Medicine
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The anaerobic threshold is vital for interpreting incremental cardiopulmonary exercise tests.
• Lactate accumulation changes significantly with increasing workload.
• Two distinct lactate thresholds are identified during exercise testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the terminology surrounding lactate thresholds.
• To present established threshold concepts and determination methods.
• To provide a structured approach for practical application of the anaerobic threshold concept.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of terms and concepts related to lactate thresholds.
• Analysis of historical and physiological backgrounds of threshold determination.
• Description of a three-phase model for lactate threshold assessment.

Main Results:

• Identified significant ambiguity and synonymous use of terms for the first and second lactate thresholds.
• Highlighted the potential for confusion when the term 'anaerobic threshold' is used interchangeably.
• Presented a framework to standardize the understanding and application of lactate threshold concepts.

Conclusions:

• Standardizing terminology and methods for lactate threshold determination is essential.
• A clear understanding of the two lactate thresholds improves exercise test interpretation and training prescription.
• This review aims to reduce confusion and enhance the practical use of the anaerobic threshold in sports science and medicine.