Lactic acid

[CR400]

I understand that Lactic Acid is almost always present in the blood to some extent. You get that burning feeling in your legs when Lactic Acid starts to be produced faster then your body can buffer it, or clear it out of the muscles. Here is where you will also encounter a term called Lactate Threshold in most cycling circles or training books. Basically it is a heart rate at which your heart cannot beat fast enough, or get enough oxygen to clear the lactic acid without feeling the effects of the acid.

The harder you push beyond this point the more your legs will burn, it can at times get so intense that you feel you need to stop. In my own case if I slow down for just a few minuets maybe 2 or 3 I can go back up to this pace. Each persons body clears lactic acid at a different rate. There are other times that I'll push through and after a little while I'm fine to continue at that pace for a while. Remember just because you are at the point of the burn does not mean you have to stop. If you have trouble getting your breath then you need to slow down. Depending on your goals as a cyclist this can be a zone you want to get close to or exceed in training at least once a week but not everytime out.

Oh as far as the heavy legs I don't know because I don't have that happen.

[Brandi]

Can you have lactic acid build up in your toes? I have had this problem for years. When I do a lot hiking r long bike rides my toes hurt, burn is more like it. I have proper shoes,footbeds and all. anyone?

[Dianyla]

Can you have lactic acid build up in your toes? I have had this problem for years. When I do a lot hiking r long bike rides my toes hurt, burn is more like it. I have proper shoes,footbeds and all. anyone?

This sounds a little more like a neurological problem, which could be a footwear fit issue or possibly a circulation problem. You might try searching around on terms like "hot foot", neuropathy, neuroma, etc. to read more up on these types of problems.