LT2 (also called the lactate turn point or MLSS — maximal lactate steady state) is the higher of two lactate threshold points. At LT2, lactate begins to accumulate exponentially — exercise above this intensity is sustainable for only 20-60 minutes in trained athletes. It corresponds roughly to functional threshold power (FTP) in cycling and threshold pace in running. Training just below LT2 (tempo, threshold work) is the most effective way to raise it. LT2 is best determined in a laboratory blood lactate test but can be approximated from field tests.
Key points
- Upper lactate threshold (MLSS)
- Above LT2: lactate accumulates exponentially
- Corresponds to FTP (cycling), threshold pace (running)
- Threshold training raises LT2 most effectively
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