---
title: "Is Your Blood Lactate Analyser Putting Your Training at Risk?"
date: 2024-08-24
categories: ["Data & monitoring"]
url: https://www.semiprocycling.com/digest/is-your-blood-lactate-analyser-putting-your-training-at-risk
author: Damian Ruse (SEMIPRO Cycling)
---
# Is Your Blood Lactate Analyser Putting Your Training at Risk?

![](https://www.semiprocycling.com/digest/images/440863796284926fa5bb92b0.webp)

In recent years, there's been a resurgence in the use of blood lactate testing—a method deeply rooted in sports science but now more accessible than ever with handheld devices. This trend has made it easier for athletes to monitor their training intensity at home, but it comes with significant risks.

A recent study tested four popular handheld blood lactate analysers—Lactate Plus, Pro2, Scout 4, and TaiDoc TD-4289—against laboratory-standard models. The findings were concerning:

- Accuracy Issues: **Handheld analysers showed deviations of up to 42% from lab results**, with the TaiDoc TD-4289 being the least reliable.
- Precision Problems: The precision of these devices was generally poor, with **residual standard errors around 0.2 mM**, leading to inconsistent readings.

This study highlights the risks of relying on these devices for at-home testing. While the resurgence of blood lactate testing brings the promise of more personalised training, the variability in results can lead to misguided adjustments and potential performance setbacks.

As this older sports science method gains new popularity, it's crucial to stay informed about the limitations and risks, particularly for those taking their testing into their own hands at home.

Explore the Full Study: [https://link.springer.com/arti...](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00421-024-05572-6)

## On my mind: The Power of Better Reps

IWe’ve all heard it a thousand times—“repetition is the mother of all learning.” It’s true, plain and simple. If you want to get better, you do the reps. Shocking, I know.

But here’s where things get interesting. As a coach, the real challenge isn’t just about piling on more reps; it’s about creating *better* reps. It’s about squeezing more value out of each effort to fast-track progress.

So, how do we do that? How do we get more out of every repetition? It comes down to a few key principles:

1. **Intentional Focus:** Every rep should have a purpose. Mindless repetition leads to minimal gains. Be clear on what each effort is meant to achieve, whether it’s refining technique, building strength, or enhancing endurance.
2. **Feedback Loop:** Immediate, actionable feedback is crucial. It’s not enough to just do the reps; athletes need to know how they’re doing in real-time. This helps them adjust and improve on the spot.
3. **Variety with Consistency:** Mix things up to keep the mind and body engaged, but maintain consistency in the fundamentals. It’s about finding that sweet spot where repetition meets variation.
4. **Quality Over Quantity:** More isn’t always better. Focus on the quality of each rep rather than just cranking out high numbers. It’s better to do fewer reps with perfect form than to do many with sloppy technique.

Remember, it’s not just about doing the work; it’s about doing the work *right*. When you create better reps, you accelerate the performance curve, and that’s where the magic happens.

Keep pushing, keep refining, and watch the progress unfold.

Till next time, keep it consistent and keep it focused.

Ridewell,

Damian

When you're ready to work with me check out my cycling coaching: [semiprocycling.com/coaching](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbC1IemRuOHVlYnVMdzNSYmFNa2hTazduRGZMd3xBQ3Jtc0trdWV1RVhfNTRzUlJXbURKMWNRWS1TdGpfaHp5M2RfZVFxaEpxN0I4aEJNaXR0RXNNT0FfOWxDT1hfOXYzOXRRWXJqMnVPTy1SUlFZWGVFa2poUERaWm9sVWsyNW0zYzRrajVQOE1KZTNGb2RvWHFlOA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.semiprocycling.com%2Fcoaching)