Lactate Equivalent for Maximal Lactate Steady State Determination in Soccer

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Maximal Lactate Steady State (MLSS) is a key indicator of endurance performance.
• Predicting MLSS typically requires multiple, time-consuming tests.
• The Minimum Lactate Equivalent (LEmin) is a less-explored lactate threshold.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the Minimum Lactate Equivalent (LEmin) for predicting Maximal Lactate Steady State (MLSS) in soccer players.
• To compare LEmin's predictive accuracy against established blood lactate thresholds (BLTs).
• To assess LEmin's applicability in individuals with lower aerobic conditioning.

Main Methods:

• Fifteen soccer players performed a submaximal incremental running test to determine BLTs.
• MLSS was determined through 3-6 constant velocity running tests.
• LEmin was calculated and compared to conventional LTs and MLSS.

Main Results:

• LEmin showed no significant difference from conventional lactate thresholds (LTs).
• LEmin accurately predicted MLSS velocity (MLSSv) in soccer players (r=0.83).
• Combined data showed LEmin as a strong predictor of MLSSv (r=0.92).

Conclusions:

• LEmin is a highly effective single predictor of MLSS.
• This study offers practical regression equations for estimating MLSS from LEmin.
• LEmin provides a feasible alternative for assessing MLSS in soccer players.