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Fitness Testing

Time is precious. For competitive cyclists, it's vital that time in the saddle is as efficient as possible. Training is most effective when current fitness capabilities are defined. We can help by testing a cyclist's Lactate Threshold (LT).  LT is the max steady-state effort one can maintain without a significant increase in blood lactate levels. LT is the best predictor of potential race performance. Once LT is defined, a custom training plan can be devised. LT must be tested regularly to determine a training plan's effectiveness. In The Spin Lab, two fitness tests are used to identify LT:  Lactate Threshold test and Functional Threshold Power (FTP) ramp test.


Call to Schedule a Fitness Test

Lactate Threshold Test

The BEST Predictor of Potential Race Performance

$200

Duration:  1 Hour

An LT test is the most accurate method used to define an athlete's lactate threshold. An LT test records the accumulation of lactate levels in the blood. This buildup occurs over a timed period of incremental increases in effort. 

The test is performed on a stationary bike. After warm-up, the participant maintains a consistent pedaling cadence as resistance is gradually increased. The proctor measures speed, cadence, power, heart rate, and increases in blood lactate levels. Blood is drawn by finger pricking.  A printout of the test results is included.

FTP Ramp Test

Simple, Affordable, Accurate

$100

Duration:  1 Hour

A Functional Threshold Power ramp test is a simple method used to loosely define FTP. Although no blood is drawn and lactate levels are not recorded, the results of this test correlate highly with the results of an LT test.

The test is performed on a stationary bike. After warm-up, the participant maintains a consistent pedaling cadence as resistance is gradually increased. The proctor measures speed, cadence, power, and heart rate.  A printout of the test results is included.