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Old 01-11-07 | 11:23 AM
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DannoXYZ
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Joined: Jul 2005
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From: Mesa, AZ

Bikes: Moots RCS, tandem, beach-cruiser, MTB, Specialized-Allez road-bike, custom track-bike

"Lactate Threshold" in cycling terms is actually a combination of true "LT" and VO2-max HR. Real LT is simply a muscular force. When combined in cycling, gearing comes into play. Repeat your LT tests at 90rpm, 95rpms, 100rpms, 105rpms at the same speed and you'll find that the "LT-HR" will vary based upon gearing.

Typically, LT-HR will be higher when using lower gears and spinning at 100rpms. Power-output at LT will tend to be a little higher as well, depending upon your neuro-muscular coordination at that RPM. At lower-RPMs, LT-HR will be lower along with lower power-output due to the higher forces needed on the pedal.

The trick is to balance your muscles vs. your heart. If your legs hurt but lungs/heart feel fine, then use lower gear and spin more. If your lungs/heart hurt, but legs feel fine, then use a bigger gear and push harder.
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