For precise lactate measurement, earlobe measurement is generally the preferred method, especially in performance diagnostics. The earlobe provides very stable and accurate values due to good blood circulation and low muscle activity. However, if you are training alone, measuring on the ear is practically impossible. If you measure on your finger, follow the tips below to get an accurate measurement:

Tips for accurate lactate measurement on the finger

Sweat is the main interfering factor in lactate measurement, as it can contaminate the blood sample and falsify the measured values. For correct measurement and to avoid skin contact with the test strip and thus possible contamination, we recommend proceeding as follows:

1. Preparation and puncture procedure

• Insert a test strip into the LACTATE PLUS. The device switches on automatically, and you have about 2 minutes to take the measurement before it switches off.

• Clean the puncture area : Use a cloth (such as a cell swab) to clean the area and remove any residue. If possible, avoid using disinfectants, as they may falsify the measured values.

• Wipe away the first drop of blood : After puncturing, wipe away the first drop of blood with a cloth, as it may contain residue or be diluted by sweat, which could alter the measurement.

• Take a new drop of blood : Press lightly on the puncture area until a new drop of blood appears. Caution: Do not press too hard, as excessive pressure can alter the blood composition and thus the measurement result.

• Choose a suitable finger : The ring finger or middle finger are the most suitable for measurement, as they are generally less stressed and therefore have less muscle activity.

2. Handling the meter

1. Place the device on the middle finger : Place the measuring device on the middle finger without pressing too hard, so that it is stable.

2. Grip with thumb and index finger : Hold the device with your thumb and index finger to hold it securely.

3. Use the ring finger as a spacer : Place the ring finger slightly under the device so that there is a small gap between the skin and the test strip.

4. Hold the test strip frontally to the blood drop : Hold the device so that the test strip is pointed directly at the fresh blood drop without touching the skin.

5. The test strip automatically draws in the required amount of blood . Wait for the countdown to start and only then remove the device.

This procedure minimizes the risk of sweat or skin contact affecting the measurement result and ensures accurate lactate measurement.

3. Use the right lancets

Also make sure you use the correct lancets for lactate measurement. If you use unsuitable or too flat lancets, not enough blood may come out, which can lead to incorrect results. Our lancets, available in the shop, are specially designed to ensure optimal puncture, so that the required blood drop for accurate lactate measurement is precisely taken.