Anaerobic Threshold
Definition
Anaerobic threshold (AT) is the exercise intensity at which the body crosses from primarily aerobic to primarily anaerobic energy production, resulting in rapid lactate accumulation in the blood. Above the anaerobic threshold, exercise cannot be sustained for more than a few minutes. Often used interchangeably with lactate threshold, though technically anaerobic threshold refers to a slightly higher intensity than the first lactate threshold.
Why it matters
Pushing the anaerobic threshold higher is the primary goal of threshold and tempo training. The higher your AT, the faster you can race before crossing into unsustainable effort. Threshold intervals (Zone 4 work at 91–105% FTP or lactate threshold pace) are the most time-efficient training for improving AT.
How FlipMP uses it
FlipMP uses threshold pace and power data to identify your anaerobic threshold zone. Threshold workouts logged in FlipMP show time spent at and below AT, and the AI coach tracks whether sustained threshold work is progressively raising your sustainable speed.
Related terms
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