The role of lactate threshold development in time trialing

[Courtancer]

Can anyone seriously claim to be a competitive time trialist without incorporating specific lactate threshold training into their regimen, or are we just going to pretend that endless hours of zone 2 spinning is going to magically propell you to the podium. Every single study and scientific paper worth its weight in salt screams that LT is the holy grail of endurance performance, yet I still see riders clinging to outdated training methods and expecting different results. Newsflash: if your training plan doesnt include regular LT intervals, youre not a serious time trialist, youre just a Sunday morning group ride hero. So, Ill ask again, how can anyone expect to be competitive in time trialing without lactate threshold development being the core of their training. Is it really just about brute force and ignorance, or is there some nuance that Im missing here.

 

[DerJan]

While lactate threshold training can indeed be beneficial, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Overemphasizing LT intervals may lead to neglecting other crucial aspects of training, such as strength and endurance. Also, keep in mind that correlation does not imply causation - just because studies show a link between LT and endurance performance, it doesn't automatically mean that LT training is the sole cause of improved performance. Let's not dismiss other training methods outright.

 

[jdnz]

Oh, I see. So you're implying that without lactate threshold (LT) training, one can't be a competitive time trialist. Is that your profound insight? Let's examine that for a moment, shall we?

First, I'd like to point out that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to training. What works for one person might not work for another. Sure, LT training is important, but it's not the be-all and end-all of time trial training.

And what exactly do you mean by "endless hours of zone 2 spinning"? Are you suggesting that's all we do? If so, you're sorely mistaken. There's a lot more to our training than that.

Furthermore, I'd like to see some of these "scientific papers" you're referring to. I've been in this game for decades, and I've seen plenty of studies come and go. Some are legit, some are not. So, before you start throwing around such absolute statements, I'd like to see the evidence.

Finally, I'd like to address your condescending tone. You seem to think that because someone doesn't follow your narrow view of training, they're not a "serious" time trialist. That's not only arrogant, it's flat-out wrong.

So, let's have a real discussion about training methods, rather than resorting to baseless assumptions and insults.

 

[robertlees]

LT training, the holy grail of endurance or just another overhyped cycling fad? While it's true that lactate threshold plays a crucial role in time trialing, reducing the sport to just LT intervals is like saying a painter's talent lies solely in their brush strokes.

Sure, LT training can help you push harder and recover faster, but it's not the only factor that determines success. Mental toughness, bike handling skills, and overall fitness also play significant roles. And let's not forget about the importance of periodization and rest.

Spinning for hours in Zone 2 might not catapult you to the podium, but it does have its place in a well-rounded training regimen. It's during these long, steady rides that your body learns to become more efficient, improving your economy and saving precious energy for those all-out efforts.

So, before you dismiss those Sunday morning group rides as mere leisurely spins, remember that they might be the secret sauce in your training plan. And as for LT training, don't neglect it, but don't put all your eggs in that basket either. Balance is key, and variety keeps things interesting. Happy training! ‍

 

[bomski99]

LT training, the holy grail of endurance? Sure, it's crucial, but let's not forget the art of recovery and varying intensities. Overlooking them is like having a fancy bike but skipping maintenance. ‍

 

[tbobby]

LT training, the holy grail? Sure, it's crucial, but let's not forget about the art of recovery and the importance of varying your training intensity.

You see, riding at a steady pace might not be as thrilling as gunning it uphill, but it's during these zones of calm that our bodies work their magic. Recovery rides help clear out lactic acid, reducing muscle soreness and fatigue.

And while LT training is key to pushing your limits, it's not the only factor in time trialing. Technique, bike fit, and mental toughness also play significant roles. So before we dismiss zone 2 spinners as mere "Sunday morning group ride heroes," let's consider the full spectrum of time trial mastery.

So, is brute force all that matters? Of course not! But neither is over-relying on one aspect of training. Variety, my friends, is the spice of life and cycling success!

 

[jdnz]

I appreciate your emphasis on recovery and training variation. You're right that lactate threshold isn't everything. Technique, mental toughness, and bike fit are also crucial. However, I'd argue that zone 2 spinning isn't just for recovery; it can build endurance too. Let's remember that successful time trialing is a blend of science and art.

 

[Courtancer]

Interesting take on blending techniques! But if endurance is built through those long spins, how do you balance that with the intensity of LT work? Can a time trialist really afford to skip the grit of regular threshold intervals?

 

[tbobby]

Endurance builds through long spins, sure. But LT work's got its place. You don't gotta choose. I'd say, blend 'em. Don't ditch threshold intervals entirely. They got their perks. Pushes your limits, makes you gritty. Just don't overdo it. Balance is key. And yeah, technique, bike fit, mental toughness? Equally vital. So, keep spinning, keep grinding. Variety, my friend, is the secret sauce to time trialing success. #CyclingSlang #TimeTrialTips

 

[Courtancer]

So, endurance is king, huh? But if you’re just spinning at a snail’s pace, how do you even know where your LT is? It’s like rolling dice and expecting to hit blackjack. You can blend all you want, but if you’re avoiding the intensity that LT intervals bring, what are you really racing for? Do we really think we can just zone out on those long rides and magically develop the grit needed for time trials? Seems like a pretty big gamble. Anyone care to explain how they justify ignoring the hard stuff while chasing podium dreams?