Which term refers to the maximum percentage of oxygen uptake an individual can use without accumulating lactic acid?

The term that refers to the maximum percentage of oxygen uptake an individual can use without accumulating lactic acid is known as the anaerobic threshold. This concept is essential in understanding exercise physiology, as it represents the point during exercise at which the body transitions from primarily aerobic metabolism to anaerobic metabolism.

At the anaerobic threshold, the body can no longer meet its energy demands solely through aerobic pathways, resulting in the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles. This threshold is significant for athletes and fitness enthusiasts because training near or just below this level can enhance endurance and overall performance.

In contrast, aerobic capacity typically refers to the overall ability of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems to supply oxygen to the muscles during sustained physical activity but does not specify the point at which lactic acid begins to accumulate. VO2 Max is a measure of the maximum volume of oxygen that an individual can utilize during intense exercise, which reflects the aerobic capacity but is distinct from the concept of the anaerobic threshold. Cardiac output, on the other hand, is the volume of blood the heart pumps per minute and does not pertain directly to the accumulation of lactic acid.

Understanding these terms and their implications helps in structuring effective training programs and assessing athletic performance.