Mjölksyretröskeln

Mjölksyretröskeln, also known as the lactate threshold, refers to the exercise intensity at which lactic acid begins to accumulate in the bloodstream faster than it can be cleared. This point is a significant physiological marker in endurance sports and exercise physiology. As exercise intensity increases, the body's reliance on anaerobic metabolism, which produces lactic acid as a byproduct, also increases. Beyond a certain point, this anaerobic contribution surpasses the capacity of the body to process the lactic acid, leading to a rise in its concentration.

Measuring the mjölksyretröskel typically involves monitoring blood lactate levels during a graded exercise test. As the exercise intensity progressively increases, blood lactate samples are taken at regular intervals. The point at which blood lactate levels begin to rise sharply and disproportionately to the increase in workload is considered the lactate threshold. This threshold can be expressed as a heart rate, a pace, or a percentage of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max).

Understanding and training to improve one's lactate threshold is crucial for endurance athletes. A higher lactate threshold means an individual can sustain a higher intensity of exercise for a longer period before fatigue sets in due to lactic acid buildup. Training strategies aimed at raising the lactate threshold often involve performing workouts at or slightly below the threshold intensity for sustained durations, as well as incorporating interval training at intensities above the threshold. It is a key indicator of aerobic fitness and performance potential in activities requiring sustained effort.