Papadopoulos, C., Doyle, J. A., LaBudde, B., Rupp, J. C., Brandon, L. J., Benardot, D., & Martin, D. E. (2003). Relationships between blood lactate parameters and endurance performance. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 35(5), Supplement abstract 498.

Trained runners (N = 13) completed an incremental maximal test to determine individual lactate profiles, a 10-km time trial, and a half-marathon time trial (all on a treadmill). Various blood measures and levels at a number of lactate threshold definitions were recorded.

All lactate thresholds were significantly correlated (r = .59), but there was more difference than commonality between them. LTlog had the highest correlation with the 10-km run (r = .926) and half-marathon (r = .906). The mean lactate during the 10-km run (3.52 mmol) was significantly higher than that recorded for the half-marathon (1.86 mmol).

Implication. While LTlog was the best overall (statistical) measure associated with running performance, it was not the best indicator for each individual for each distance. Any use of lactate measures should only be on an individual basis. Combining the results of lactate measures could produce a meaningless number.

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