Has anyone done a lactate threshold test?

I'm basically just looking for some general feedback on this test. I'm thinking about taking the plunge and having one done, given my not-so-good recent experiences with my new Garmin Edge 500 and HR training. I have to admit...I'm a little bit freaked, as I know this test will likely push me well beyond my comfort zone. So I guess what I'm really asking here is...is this test gonna be the hardest, most uncomfortable 30-45 minutes of my life? I realize the information that I gain from it, can only help me in the long run...so I am excited about that. But I'd be interested to hear others experiences.

Linda

I had it done in 2003. Here's what I wrote.

I should go do it again since I'm MUCH fitter now.

Veronica

I do them regularly (every 4 - 6 months) at my training center - varying between gas exchange (with the scuba headgear which I HATE because I am claustrophobic and the nose plug is always threatening to pop off my somewhat flared nostrils) and blood lactate from a prick in the ear. The data is (are?) pretty interesting, and I really have enjoyed watching trends and development over the years.

Yes the sub max and VO2 max parts of the test are uncomfortable. But it is like a hard interval - it doesn't last long, and you just push through to failure. I like trying to push a higher wattage than the time before. :) Sometimes I can, and sometimes I can't. It's like climbing a hill at a high intensity or pulling into the wind hard - it doesn't last forever and you push through as best you can.

I don't use the values for heart rate training because I don't use a HR monitor. What I am using is the power values for my computrainer classes twice a week.

I used my new numbers tonight and boy did they hurt!!! :p

nscrbug, I am glad you getting tested so you can find what your threshold really is. I get tested every few months in order to adjust my threshold power and monitor my fitness. There are few different ways of performing the test, some are highly scientific but most consist of doing a warm up and then a 20 to 30 minute test. To answer your question is most likely that is going to be painful (can very painful) as you have to go as hard as you can for at least 20 minutes. I don't really look forward to test days. ;)