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Background
Many often look for any edge to make them a better skier,
runner, triathlete, biker, or athlete in whatever sport
they may compete. Using lactate testing as a way to guide
one's training is becoming the standard rather than the
exception. Just as monitoring heart rate became a standard
in the '80's, utilizing lactates is now becoming the obvious
way to monitor one's training and measure effectiveness.
With the cost of a unit less than a new pair of skis, anyone
serious about their training and racing ought put some thought
into purchasing a unit or at minimum joining a group who
has the technology to perform the tests. I put a popular
model, the Lactate Pro, to the test.
The Test
The first thing one notices about the Lactate Pro is that
it is very small and mobile. It easily fits into a fanny
pack, a water belt carrier, or even a small pocket. This
makes it very easy to take anywhere you do your testing.
I used the monitor for 8 test sessions: 3 sessions with
runners, 2 with bikers and 3 with rollerskiers. Each time
I used the Lactate Pro the test went smoothly, results were
accurate, and the athletes were satisfied and happy. The
test strips are simple to insert into the monitor and require
only a very small amount of blood. The reading is fast,
clear, and consistent. Compared to other monitors I've seen
used, the Lactate Pro is definitely the easiest to use,
gives the quickest, most accurate results, and is the most
versatile. Additionally, one doesn't need a coach to do
the test since it is so light and small. Out on a rollerski
I carried the unit in a coat pocket and stopped 4 times
to check my lactates. It was easy, quick, and helped ensure
I was training at the correct intensity. The monitor is
perfect for anyone including a masters skier, an elite-level
coach, or a serious training group.
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Basic Procedure
Performing a test:
Clean finger. Prick finger. Wipe away first drip of blood. Insert test strip into Lactate Pro. Place test strip (now in the Lactate Pro)
in blood drop on finger (will fill via capillary
action).Machine beeps when it has enough blood.
The machine counts down from one minute
and displays blood lactate levels in Mmol/L.
It is just that easy.
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Some interesting facts:
The size of a credit card. Measurements completed in 60 seconds. Requires a very small blood sample (5 �l, approximately
a 2mm diameter drop). High data precision of C.V. 3%. Stores up to 20 measurements and can average past
results. Automatic aspiration of blood eliminates blood
sample size error. No applicators necessary. ISO 9001 certified
According to Fact-Canada, the North American distributor
of the monitor, the Lactate Pro is the meter of choice of
elite teams and sport scientists (world wide) both for monitoring
athlete training and for sport research. In North America
it is used heavily by the USA and Canadian National Ski
and Swim teams and has recently been featured as the meter
of choice for runners in both "Running Research News" and
"Runner's World" magazines. The Lactate Pro is fully approved
by the FDA and is the only lactate test system that is classified
as a Waived test by CLIA.
Cost/Availability
A starter kit with lancet device, the meter, and 25 test
strips to get going will cost around $280. Each box of 200
lancets will run you around $11. Test strips are the costly
end of testing, each test strip will cost you nearly $2.
(Don't forget you'll need alcohol swabs, gloves, gauze,
and a sharps container to complete your test kit as well.)
Thanks to Fact-Canada for supplying us with
a Lactate Pro unit. More details and online ordering
at www.fact-canada.com
or 250-991-8298. |
