Maximal aerobic power in trained youths at high altitude

The sample for this study consisted of 25 males and 19 females between the ages of 8.8 and 19.5 years. The subjects were healthy, well nourished and trained swimmers residing in La Paz, Bolivia (mean altitude 3700 m). The purpose of this study was to provide normative values for the work capacity of high-altitude youths. Mean VO2 max was 46.9 ml/kg/min in males and 39.3 ml/kg/min in females. VO2max increased significantly with age in males but not in females. Mean VO2max tended to be 10-20% lower in the swimmers than in sea-level athletes.