Lactate is a much maligned substance that flows around in our blood during exercise. It forms when the body breaks down carbohydrates, and is commonly – albeit wrongly – blamed for the burning feeling in our legs when cycling at high intensities. In this feature, with the assistance of Dr Richard Ferguson, an exercise physiologist from Loughborough University, we answer the FAQs concerning lactate’s role in cycling fitness – and how understanding it can help us train more intelligently.
Why lactate not ‘lactic acid’ – what’s the difference?
Lactate is lactic acid with one less hydrogen ion. Lactic acid is produced in our cells but almost immediately turns to lactate in the bloodstream because blood has a neutral pH. This is why, in the context of measuring during exercise, it’s more accurate to refer to lactate rather than lactic acid.
What is lactate’s role in cycling performance?
Lactate is produced during exercise when the body breaks down
