Northius, M. E., Wicklund, H., & Patnott, J. R. (2003). Blood lactate changes in collegiate swimmers. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 35(5), Supplement abstract 1455.

Collegiate swimmers (N = 16) were blood lactate profiled for 21 weeks before, during and after a double-taper season. Finger-tip blood lactates were measured after races.

Peak post-race lactate values increased as the season progressed. Peak post-race (100 and 200-yd) lactate values were significantly related to swimming velocity. Peak lactates were not related to peak swimming power.

Implication. Improved blood lactate values should be expected across a training season.

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