laktátskúcs

Laktátskúcs, also known as the lactate threshold, is a physiological concept in exercise science. It represents the point during incremental exercise at which lactate begins to accumulate in the blood at a faster rate than it can be cleared. This accumulation leads to a rise in blood lactate concentration.

Physiologically, the lactate threshold is often associated with the transition from primarily aerobic metabolism to a greater reliance on anaerobic glycolysis. As exercise intensity increases, the demand for ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body's primary energy currency, outpaces the rate at which oxygen can be supplied to the working muscles for aerobic ATP production. This forces muscle cells to increase the rate of anaerobic glycolysis, which produces ATP more rapidly but also generates lactate as a byproduct.

In practical terms, the lactate threshold is a key indicator of endurance performance. Athletes with a higher lactate threshold can sustain a higher exercise intensity before significant lactate accumulation occurs, meaning they can perform at a faster pace for longer periods. It is often determined through graded exercise testing, where blood lactate levels are measured at various exercise intensities. Training aimed at improving endurance often focuses on strategies to raise the lactate threshold, such as incorporating interval training and tempo runs. Understanding and monitoring the lactate threshold can help individuals optimize their training programs for specific athletic goals.