Alongside this is an increased density and economy of capillaries, meaning blood is more easily moved around(3). This means both greater efficiency and greater volume of oxygen transporting cells. ? An increase in the number of actual red blood cells(3, 7). ? Haemoglobin mass (the oxygen transport metalloprotein in red blood cells) and Since then, both researchers and athletes have been interested in the effects elevation training has on our blood and physical performance. Original research indicated almost 60 years ago that exposure to high altitude environments increased red blood cell and plasma volume in sea level populations(6). High Altitude Training | Haematological Effects If you ascend above > 5500m (think about the height of Mount Kilimanjaro) this is considered “extreme” altitude! There are different specifications as to what is considered “ high altitude“- the most commonly used being the Bärtsch classification(5).Īccording to this position statement, altitude above sea level beyond 3000m ( 9840 feet) is considered “high” altitude, with 500-2000m being “low” altitude and 2000-3000m being “moderate” altitude. Theoretically then, when the athlete competes (at sea level,) there is a greater amount of oxygen carrying red blood cells available and a greater transport of oxygen to the muscles for metabolism. The consequence of this change in oxygen pressure is for the body to produce greater amounts of EPO (erythropoietin) in the kidneys(4), which subsequently means an increase in red blood cells produced. This article will explain what the fuss is all about with this training strategy and whether or not the benefits postulated are real.Īthletes choose to train at high altitude due to the underlying benefits of intermittent hypoxia training – in essence regular exposure to an environment where oxygen availability is reduced due to natural or artificial methods.Īt higher altitudes (increased height above sea level) as atmospheric pressure decreases, the air has a reduced partial pressure of oxygen, meaning less oxygen is available in the environment to be used by the body(3). “High Elevation”) has been discussed and used by athletes for decades to improve performance at sea level(2). Training at high altitude (for readers in the U.S.

This means more aerobic energy efficiency, increased time until fatigue and generally a higher intensity workload. Obviously the more oxygen you can circulate, the longer and more intense your work capacity can be. Endurance sport performance is strongly benefited by an increased ability to carry and transport oxygen around the body to the working muscles(1).

Altitude sports