Find the intensities that organize smarter endurance training. Both testing options use the VO2 Master during a progressive treadmill or cycling protocol. Choose ventilatory threshold testing, or add blood lactate sampling for a second physiological signal and a more detailed performance profile.
Ventilatory Threshold $150. Add lactate sampling for $75 to unlock the lactate curve and estimated FatMax and CarbMax ranges. Members save 20%.
Both options assess how your body responds as exercise intensity rises. The difference is the data collected during the graded test and the level of detail included in your results.
A noninvasive test that uses VO2 Master breathing and ventilation data to identify your first and second ventilatory thresholds, VT1 and VT2. Results connect those breakpoints to heart rate and, when the modality supports it, pace, speed or cycling power.
The same VO2 Master ventilatory test, plus small capillary blood samples collected with a portable lactate meter at planned stages. The resulting lactate curve adds a second view of your response and helps the coach compare lactate-derived breakpoints with VT1 and VT2.
| Feature | Ventilatory | Ventilatory + Lactate |
|---|---|---|
| VO2 Master graded test | Included | Included |
| VT1 and VT2 | Included | Included |
| Heart-rate and training zones | Included | Included |
| Blood lactate sampling | Not included | Included |
| Lactate curve and derived breakpoints | Not included | Included |
| Estimated FatMax and CarbMax ranges | Not included | Included |
The two methods should generally support a consistent training interpretation, but the reported breakpoints may not be numerically identical. Ventilation and blood lactate are related responses, not the same measurement. Protocol design, stage length and the method used to identify each breakpoint can also affect the result.
Combined testing provides a useful cross-check. Your coach interprets the complete pattern instead of forcing both methods to produce the same heart rate, pace or power.
With the lactate add-on, we use the combined ventilatory profile, oxygen consumption, workload, heart rate and lactate curve to estimate intensity ranges associated with your highest likely fat contribution and increasing carbohydrate reliance. These estimates add context for aerobic training, longer events and fueling discussions.
FatMax and CarbMax are estimated intensity ranges in this protocol, not direct measurements of grams of fat or carbohydrate burned. They are available with the lactate add-on and are interpreted alongside your thresholds, not in isolation.
VO2 max testing describes your aerobic capacity at the upper end of exercise. Threshold testing focuses on the intensity breakpoints that help organize sustainable work below that ceiling. Many endurance athletes benefit from collecting both in one well-designed graded exercise assessment.
Measure your ceiling directly, then use threshold data to organize the training beneath it.
Explore VO2 Max TestingConnect your thresholds to a weekly plan with pace, power and heart-rate targets that fit your event.
Explore Endurance CoachingYour threshold test comes back with the full picture: stage-by-stage pace, heart rate, VO2 and ventilation, and, with the lactate add-on, blood lactate at every stage, with VT1, VT2, LT1, LT2 and your fuel landmarks clearly marked.
Sample report shown for illustration. Your report is built from your own measured data. This is a design mockup, not a medical or diagnostic report.
Turn breathing, heart-rate and optional blood lactate data into training intensities you can use. Choose ventilatory threshold testing, or add lactate sampling at Carlsbad Athletic Club.
Book Ventilatory Threshold · $150Ventilatory and lactate threshold testing at Carlsbad Athletic Club is a fitness and performance assessment intended to inform training decisions. It is not a diagnostic medical test and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition. The lactate option involves a small capillary blood sample using a single-use lancet. Maximal or near-maximal exercise carries inherent risk. Clients with cardiovascular symptoms, significant medical concerns or exercise restrictions should obtain appropriate medical clearance before testing.