We regularly get the question: why is my anaerobic threshold in INSCYD (much) lower than my FTP?
To answer this question, let’s have a look at what we at INSCYD mean by anaerobic threshold.
At INSCYD we consider the anaerobic threshold as the maximal lactate steady state (MLSS). MLSS is the highest intensity that an athlete can sustain, without accumulating lactate. If your athlete has a MLSS of 280 watt, then he/she can ride at 280 watt without showing an increase in lactate concentration over time.
This golden standard approach is different from an FTP or critical power. Nowadays, many coaches try to estimate the MLSS by looking at training data, race data or by performing an FTP test. However, a critical power or functional threshold power is not the same as the golden standard MLSS, used by INSCYD.
Watch the video to learn why any 20 minute, 30 minute or even 60 minute all out test can never equal MLSS. Spoiler: because all these tests have the aim to go maximum. As a result, there is no lactate steady state (lactate concentrations will max out).