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Short-term intermittent normobaric hypoxia--haematological, physiological and mental effects
K Piehl Aulin1, J Svedenhag, L Wide
1Department of Medicine, University of Uppsala, Falun, Sweden.
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
|July 11, 1998
Summary
Intermittent exposure to normobaric hypoxia stimulated red blood cell production in healthy subjects. This "live high-train low" approach may complement traditional altitude training for athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
- Altitude Training
Background:
- Athletes often use altitude training to enhance performance.
- Intermittent exposure to hypoxia aims to stimulate physiological adaptations without prolonged detraining.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of intermittent normobaric hypoxia on erythropoiesis, blood pressure, physical performance, and mental state.
- To evaluate the feasibility of the 'live high-train low' concept over 10 days.
Main Methods:
- 15 healthy subjects exposed to normobaric hypoxia (2000m or 2700m) for 12 hours/day over 10 days.
- Control group (5 subjects) remained at normoxia.
- Measurements included blood gases, hemoglobin, hematocrit, erythropoietin, reticulocytes, oxygen uptake, blood pressure, and mood states.
Main Results:
- Hypoxia significantly decreased blood oxygen partial pressure and saturation.
- Erythropoietin levels increased, and reticulocyte counts rose, indicating stimulated erythropoiesis.
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit initially decreased but returned to baseline levels.
- No significant changes were observed in oxygen uptake, blood pressure, or mood states.
Conclusions:
- 10 days of intermittent normobaric hypoxia effectively stimulates erythropoiesis.
- This method can be a valuable addition to standard altitude sojourns for athletes.