High altitude training is a method used by athletes to improve their performance. It involves exercising in places where the air is thin and has less oxygen, typically at altitudes above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). This type of training challenges the body to adapt to lower oxygen levels, which can lead to various benefits but also carries some risks.
There’s no doubt that the ones who master the art of training on higher altitudes have comparatively better stamina and lung capacity. However training on higher altitudes can sometimes prove to be a threat as well due to various factors.
Pros of High Altitude Training:
1. Enhanced Oxygen Utilization:
Training at high altitudes stimulates the body to produce more red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the muscles. This increase in oxygen-carrying capacity can improve endurance and overall performance.
2. Increased Lung Capacity:
Exercising in thin air forces the lungs to work harder, leading to improved lung function and capacity over time.
3. Mental Toughness:
Enduring workouts in challenging conditions builds mental resilience, which can be beneficial in competitive sports.
4. Natural EPO Production:
High altitude stimulates the body to produce erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that regulates red blood cell production. This natural boost can enhance athletic performance without resorting to artificial means.
Cons of High Altitude Training:
1. Risk of Altitude Sickness:
Training at high altitudes can increase the risk of altitude sickness, which includes symptoms like headache, nausea, and fatigue. Severe cases may require medical attention and can negatively impact training.
2. Reduced Training Intensity:
The decreased oxygen availability at high altitudes may limit the intensity of workouts, potentially leading to slower progress compared to training at sea level.
3. Time and Cost:
Accessing high altitude training facilities or locations requires time and resources, including travel expenses and accommodation.
Relation to Sports Science:
High altitude training is a cornerstone of sports science research, aiming to understand its physiological effects and optimize its benefits for athletes. Scientists study how the body adapts to altitude, the mechanisms behind increased red blood cell production, and the optimal timing and duration of altitude exposure for different sports and individuals. This research helps coaches and athletes develop tailored training programs to maximize performance gains while minimizing risks.
In conclusion, high altitude training offers athletes a natural way to improve performance through physiological adaptations. While it has notable benefits such as enhanced oxygen utilization and mental toughness, it also carries risks like altitude sickness and logistical challenges. Through ongoing research in sports science, athletes can harness the advantages of high altitude training to reach their full potential in competition.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
