[Physical training in high altitude]

Hemodynamic parameters and myocardial extraction of lactate and free fatty acids (FFA) have been studied at rest and during exercise (bicycle) in 9 mountain climbers who spent 4 weeks in the Himalayas at an altitude of 5500-7000 m. All investigations were performed before and immediately after the stay at high altitude. The combined effect of physical training and hypoxemia of high altitude did not alter the hemodynamic parameters, calculated VO2 max, production of lactate or decrease of FFA during the exercise test, but myocardial extraction of lactate and FFA changed. After returning from the expedition myocardial extraction (at rest and during exercise) of lactate increased and that of FFA decreased. The reasons for these alterations and their goals and implications are discussed.