You will be doing a gradual ramp test in the mode of exercise of your choice (running and cycling are most common). You will begin with a very easy intensity and progress to a moderately hard intensity in six minute stages. At the end of each stage, a blood sample will be collected via finger prick to measure lactate concentration at that exercise intensity. You will then start the next stage at a slightly higher intensity. The test will end after we have crossed your second lactate threshold, which is typically at 7/10 effort. This is NOT a maximally exhaustive test. 

Lactate testing provides a view into your physiology, namely comparing relative aerobic and anaerobic energy production. A lactate test at APEX PWR in Portland, Oregon will provide information on how to optimize your training, whether you should be focusing on sustained low-intensity workouts, moderate intensity intervals, or short high intensity efforts.

Lactate testing can also determine your training zones far more accurately than formulas based off of estimated max HR (220-age) or field-based tests. You will feel what different training zones feel like during your test. You can also objectively track changes in both aerobic and anaerobic fitness over time to ensure progress.

Yes! People often schedule more than one service to be done at the time of their appointment, such as a Lactate Threshold Test and a DEXA Scan (most common). However, in some cases, it may not be possible to schedule lactate testing and a DEXA Scan. Call to inquire.

Lactate testing in Portland, Oregon at APEX Performance Wellness & Rehab costs $167 for a 60 minute test and $227 for a 90 minute test. Lactate Testing is a one on one appointment with one of our specialists. This is a lower price for lactate testing in Portland, Oregon. There are discounts on lactate testing when you combine it with another service, such as a DEXA Scan or Resting Metabolic Rate Test.

YES! The Lactate Test in Portland, Oregon at APEX PWR will be an approved expense under MOST HSA/FSA plans . You may utilize your HSA/FSA account for a variety of services at APEX PWR, including sports physical therapy, DEXA Scan for body composition, Resting Metabolic Rate Testing, and more! You are encouraged to check with your HSA or FSA beforehand, as well as reach out to our team to discuss in more detail.

You need to be somewhat well rested prior to your lactate test to get good data. This means taking the day before easier and not working out the day of the test.

If you typically consume caffeine before working out, it is okay to consume caffeine as usual prior to your test. If you don't typically consume caffeine, please do not consume caffeine prior to your test.

You should NOT be fasted going into the lactate test, as you'll need energy to run continuously for 30-40+ minutes up to a moderately hard effort. It is preferred you do not eat within an hour prior to your test, but if you typically have a snack prior to working out, it is okay to do so. Do not consume anything you usually wouldn't consume prior to your test.

If you want to maximize your hiking performance and want to follow a structured training plan to improve your hiking, then lactate testing can help you optimize your training. 

You can perform lactate testing on any form of exercise--running, swimming, uphill hiking, cycling, rowing, and even sled pushing. It's simply a measure of lactate production, or anaerobic energy production, in your blood during exercise. It is most common in endurance sports, such as cycling and running.