What is the relationship between wattage and a cyclist's lactate threshold?

[Jyag]

Is the industry standard assumption that a higher wattage output directly correlates to a higher lactate threshold accurate, or is it overly simplistic and often misleading. Its commonly accepted that a rider who can consistently produce 300 watts is likely to have a high lactate threshold, but what about riders who produce similar wattage but have drastically different endurance capabilities. Does this mean that lactate threshold is not as crucial as we think, and other factors such as muscle fiber distribution and cardiovascular efficiency play a more significant role in a riders overall performance. Why do some riders seem to defy the conventional wisdom that a higher wattage output is directly tied to a higher lactate threshold, and what does this say about our current understanding of the relationship between the two.

 

[hermank]

While it's true that a higher wattage output can indicate a strong lactate threshold, it's far from the whole story. Riders with similar wattage outputs can have wildly different endurance capabilities, suggesting that other factors, like muscle fiber distribution and cardiovascular efficiency, are in play. It's like comparing a diesel engine to a petrol one; both can produce similar power, but their efficiency and endurance can vary greatly.

We tend to idolize high wattage numbers, but they don't always translate to success on the road. A rider might pump out 400 watts in short bursts, but if they can't sustain that effort, they'll be left in the dust during a long climb. It's a bit like having a powerful car that's terrible on gas – impressive, but not practical.

This nuanced relationship between wattage and lactate threshold should make us question the industry's oversimplified assumptions. Maybe it's time to shift our focus from raw power to overall performance efficiency. After all, in cycling, as in life, it's not just about how hard you can go, but how long you can keep going.
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(Wattage and lactate threshold relationship illustrated with diesel vs petrol engine, car on a long ride)
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[jed075]

Ah, the age-old question of wattage vs. lactate threshold, a topic that's been debated since the invention of the bicycle, I'm sure. It's almost as if we're trying to decipher the mysteries of the universe here. But alas, I digress.

You see, it's not enough to simply assume that a higher wattage output means a higher lactate threshold. Oh no, that would be too easy. Instead, let's complicate things and consider other factors like muscle fiber distribution and cardiovascular efficiency. Because, as we all know, cycling is a sport that's all about making things as complicated as possible.

And let's not forget about those riders who produce similar wattage but have drastically different endurance capabilities. Clearly, they're just trying to throw us off the scent and confuse us even further. How dare they!

But in all seriousness, while lactate threshold is important, it's not the be-all and end-all of cycling performance. There are many factors that contribute to a rider's overall ability, and it's important to consider them all.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go adjust my seat post and saddle for the hundredth time. It's a never-ending battle, I tell you.

 

[matt s]

The assumption that higher wattage output directly correlates to a higher lactate threshold is a gross oversimplification. It's like saying that just because someone can sprint fast, they're automatically a great endurance athlete. Not even close. I think the industry has been misled by this myth for far too long. The reality is, lactate threshold is just one piece of the puzzle. Muscle fiber distribution, cardiovascular efficiency, and even mental toughness play a much more significant role in a rider's overall performance. Take two riders with similar wattage outputs, but one has a more efficient cardiovascular system and more slow-twitch muscle fibers - who do you think will perform better in a long, grueling ride? It's time to move beyond this simplistic thinking and recognize the complexity of human physiology. ️

 

[LaTomate]

A fixation on wattage and lactate masks the complexity of cycling performance. Muscle fiber distribution andệ cardiovascular efficiency do matter. Some riders may maintain lower wattage yet endure, challenging the assumed correlation. It's not that lactate threshold lacks importance, but it's one piece of the puzzle, not the whole enchilada. So, let's not reduce riders to wattage outputs and lactate readings. There's more to the bike than that.

 

[JamesO]

Ever pondered over the enigma of two riders, alike in wattage yet distinct in endurance? It's akin to a masquerade, where lactate threshold isn't the sole protagonist. Muscle fiber distribution and cardiovascular efficiency whisper tales of their own. It's a Shakespearean tragedy, where riders defy the norm, challenging our understanding of wattage-lactate correlation. Could it be that we're missing crucial chapters in this cycling saga?

 

[jed075]

Been there, done that. Sure, wattage & lactate matter, but let's not forget about muscle endurance. S'like they're pedaling a different story, y'know? Maybe it's time to rewrite the cycling script. #forumflow

 

[hermank]

Muscle endurance, man, that's where it's at. Forget them big wattage numbers, they don't mean squat if your legs turn to jelly after an hour. I've seen it happen, riders with high power outputs crumbling on long rides while those with solid endurance keep grinding. It's like a marathon, not a sprint.

You see, endurance is like the tortoise in Aesop's fable. Slow and steady, it may not look impressive, but it gets the job done. And in cycling, getting the job done means pedaling for hours, sometimes even days.

I mean, sure, lactate threshold matters too, but it's all intertwined with endurance. If you can't clear lactic acid from your muscles efficiently, you'll gas out quickly. But if you've got the endurance, you can push through that burn and keep going.

So, next time you're training, don't just focus on cranking up the wattage. Remember, it's how long you can maintain that power that truly counts. Muscle endurance, that's the real game-changer.

 

[Jyag]

Endurance is king, no debate. Wattage is just a flashy number. You can push 300 watts all day, but if your legs blow up after an hour, what’s the point? Ever see those sprint kings crapping out on long climbs? Real riders know it’s about grinding through that fatigue. So, if lactate threshold isn’t the whole story, what other sneaky factors are we missing? Muscles or heart, what's really driving the bike?