Effects of Moderate Altitude Training Combined with Moderate or High-altitude Residence

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Altitude Training

Background:

• Altitude training is a common strategy to enhance endurance performance.
• Different altitude modalities, including living high-training moderate (LHTM) and living moderate-training moderate (LMTM), are employed.
• Nocturnal normobaric hypoxic exposures are sometimes added to LHTM protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the physiological and performance effects of two 3-week altitude training modalities in trained cross-country skiers.
• To investigate differences between LMTM and LHTM with nocturnal hypoxic exposure.
• To assess exercise performance and hematological changes post-altitude exposure.

Main Methods:

• Eight trained cross-country skiers participated in two separate 3-week altitude training camps.
• Modality 1: Living moderate-training moderate (LMTM) at 1500m.
• Modality 2: LMTM with additional nocturnal normobaric hypoxic exposures (FiO2=0.17).
• Maximal roller ski tests and submaximal cycle ergometry were performed pre-, during, and post-camps.
• Hematological parameters were also monitored.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in exercise performance or hematological markers were observed between LMTM and LHTM.
• Both modalities led to significant improvements in average roller ski velocity one week after training.
• LMTM showed increased Tissue Oxygenation Index and blood pH, with decreased total hemoglobin.
• LHTM demonstrated augmented minute ventilation and systemic blood oxygen saturation.

Conclusions:

• Both LMTM and LHTM with nocturnal hypoxia effectively enhance exercise performance in trained skiers.
• Minor physiological adaptations differed between the two modalities.
• Overall, the altitude training interventions induced comparable exercise performance modulation.