Lactate profile changes in relation to training characteristics in junior elite cyclists

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Cycling Performance

Background:

• Elite track cycling performance relies on optimizing physiological adaptations.
• Understanding training intensity distribution is crucial for improving ergometer power and lactate profiles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare training intensity distribution between elite track cyclists who improved versus those who decreased in ergometer power.
• To identify the relationship between training intensity distribution and changes in power output at 4 mM blood lactate over a 15-week period.

Main Methods:

• 51 young male elite cyclists underwent ergometer testing before and after a 15-week training period.
• Training data, including exercise type, intensity categories, and daily volumes, were collected and analyzed.
• Cyclists were categorized into 'Responders' (improved power) and 'Non-Responders' (decreased power) based on changes in ergometer performance.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were found in non-cycling training or total cycling distance between Responders and Non-Responders.
• Responders accumulated more training volume at low intensity (<2 mM blood lactate), while Non-Responders trained more near threshold intensity (3-6 mM).
• Training intensity distribution explained approximately 60% of the variance in ergometer performance changes, and over 70% when combined with initial performance.

Conclusions:

• Training intensity distribution significantly influences lactate profile development and performance changes in elite cyclists.
• Training at low intensity (<2 mM blood lactate) is associated with improved power output relative to blood lactate.
• Excessive training near threshold intensity may negatively impact lactate threshold development, warranting further investigation into underlying mechanisms.