Maximal lactate accumulation rate ( c ˙ La_max): Current evidence and future directions for exercise testing and...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Metabolic Research

Background:

• Maximal lactate accumulation rate ($\dot{\text{c}}$ La_max) is gaining traction as a measure of glycolytic metabolism.
• Inconsistencies in terminology, procedures, and calculations necessitate a comprehensive review.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current evidence on $\dot{\text{c}}$ La_max.
• To provide recommendations for future research and practical application of $\dot{\text{c}}$ La_max in sports science.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature review of 60 peer-reviewed English-language articles.
• Analysis of $\dot{\text{c}}$ La_max's origin, development, terminology, procedures, reliability, specificity, applicability, and adaptability.

Main Results:

• $\dot{\text{c}}$ La_max is used globally across various sports including cycling, running, swimming, rowing, kayaking, and paratriathlon.
• Sport-specific all-out sprint tests (10-12s) with minute-by-minute post-exercise lactate measurements for 10 minutes are recommended for reliable and specific determination.
• $\dot{\text{c}}$ La_max correlates with sprint performance and strength but its predictive utility for longer durations (≥1 min) remains inconclusive.

Conclusions:

• Standardized protocols are needed for $\dot{\text{c}}$ La_max determination and application.
• Future research should validate $\dot{\text{c}}$ La_max with enzyme activity/muscle fiber typology, focus on female athletes, and assess training adaptability.