WHAT TO EXPECT ON TEST DAY

The lactate threshold test requires the typical equipment for that particular discipline. For example, if you are being tested on the bike, you will need to bring your own bike, shoes, water bottle, and cycling clothing. No helmet is necessary unless you tend to fall off your trainer a lot! To be tested on the run, you will need your running shoes and clothing. Be sure that your training volume and intensity the few days leading up to the test is light. You would be better served to take the day off so that you are fresh coming into the test, assuring that the data will be as accurate as possible.

Test length is determined by each athlete but in general, plan on about 40 minutes actual running time and at least an hour total for the run test and 50-60 minutes actual cycling time and 1 1/2 hours total for the cycling test to allow for equipment set up and any questions you may have. The test is comprised of a warm up, followed by 5 to 7 five minute stages at a progressively harder intensity, and then a cool down period. At each stage, we will be recording your heart rate, ratings of perceived exertion, and blood lactate levels.

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