The Magic of Lactic Acid: How That Burn Builds a Fitter Body and a Stronger Brain
We’ve all felt it: that deep burn in your legs during sprints, in the lungs during a hill set or in the chest and triceps during a high number of press ups. For years, lactic acid has been seen as the villain, the thing that makes us stop. But what if that burn is actually one of the most powerful signals your body can give—a sign of transformation for both your body and your brain?
What is Lactic Acid and Why Do We Feel the Burn?
When you push hard—think fast runs, HIIT sessions, or hill sprints—your muscles need energy quickly. When there isn’t enough oxygen for your muscles to get energy the usual way, your body uses the anaerobic system, breaking down glucose for fuel. The byproduct? Lactate (often called lactic acid).
But here’s the truth: lactate isn’t bad. It’s actually an energy source your muscles, heart, and even your brain can use. That burning feeling? It’s just your body telling you you’re in a high-performance zone.
How Lactic Acid Supercharges Your Brain
When lactate enters your bloodstream, some of it travels to your brain. And this is where the magic happens: lactate stimulates the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF).
BDNF is like fertilizer for your brain. It helps:
Grow new brain cells
Strengthen memory and learning
Improve mood and mental sharpness
So every time you hit that burn, you’re not just getting fitter—you’re making your brain stronger.
Reframe the Burn: It’s Your Opportunity
Instead of thinking, “I can’t take this anymore,” tell yourself:
“This is where real change happens.”
That discomfort signals growth—physical and mental. It’s your body and brain adapting to become stronger, faster, and more resilient.
Want to Tap into This Power? Do HIIT
The best way to boost lactate (and BDNF)? High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). Short bursts of hard effort followed by recovery push your body to the right zone.
At One Element, this is what we do every week. From London, Surrey, Hampshire and beyond, our sessions are designed to get you fitter, sharper, and stronger—inside and out.
1. Wandsworth
We make the most of Wandsworth Common, Wandsworth Park, Wandsworth Westside, and King George’s Park — all with open spaces and shaded spots to balance effort and recovery.
2. West London
Our members train in St Margarets in Richmond and Twickenham, enjoying riverside breezes, and in Clapham Common and Tooting Bec Common where tree cover keeps sessions cooler.
3. East London
Thames Barrier Park in Docklands offers striking green spaces with views of the river and modern landscaping that makes every session feel unique.
4. Outside London
Our Anstey Park sessions in Alton and training at Selborne Recreation Ground are set against beautiful Hampshire countryside backdrops, combining sunshine, fresh air, and open space.
Join us for a free trial, you’ll find expert coaches, a welcoming community, and sessions that push your body to the right zone.
Join us for a Free Trial and experience the difference
Lactic acid isn’t something to fear. It’s your signal that change is happening—your body is getting stronger, and your brain is growing. Feel the burn. Embrace it. You’ll earn it.
Join us for a Free Trial and experience the difference
Lactic acid isn’t something to fear. It’s your signal that change is happening—your body is getting stronger, and your brain is growing. Feel the burn. Embrace it. You’ll earn it.
