Lactic threshold

Lactic threshold is the exercise intensity at which lactate starts to accumulate in the blood faster than it can be removed. It indicates the transition from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism. Improving this threshold allows runners to sustain higher intensities without fatigue. Training just below or at this threshold, such as tempo runs, enhances endurance. Elite marathoners often have a high lactic threshold, enabling them to maintain faster paces. Understanding and improving lactic threshold helps runners optimize performance and delay fatigue during races.