IS REAL ALTITUDE TRAINING HEALTHY?

Altitude training at elevations above 2,500 meters above sea level can have positive effects on health.

However, depending on individual circumstances, there are also potential risks and disadvantages:

ALTITUDE SICKNESS: 

Sudden exposure to high altitudes can cause symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms are usually temporary but may, in rare cases, require immediate descent.

DEHYDRATION: 

The dry air at high altitudes can lead to increased fluid loss and dehydration.

REDUCED TRAINING INTENSITY: 

The decreased oxygen content at high altitudes can affect the quality of training.

In general, altitude training can be beneficial for health when properly planned and conducted. It is essential to pay attention to the body’s individual response and make adjustments if necessary. Before starting an altitude training program, it is advisable to consult a physician or sports medicine specialist to assess potential risks and contraindications.

HOW DOES IHHT DIFFER FROM REAL ALTITUDE TRAINING IN THE MOUNTAINS?

Intermittent Hypoxia-Hyperoxia Training (IHHT) or Intermittent Hypoxia Training (IHT) differs significantly from traditional altitude training in the mountains in several aspects.

SAFETY:

In IHHT, oxygen conditions are artificially modulated in a controlled environment, contrasting with altitude training, where athletes experience continuously increasing hypoxic stress and hydrostatic pressure during ascent.

DURATION:

Compared to altitude training, which often lasts for days, weeks, or even months, IHHT consists of short, repeated phases of hypoxia and hyperoxia within a limited time frame.

IINDIVIDUALISATIOB:

IHHT can be easily tailored to the individual goals, needs, and circumstances of the person undergoing training, while this may be more challenging or even impossible in altitude training.

HYPEROXIA PHASE:

Unlike altitude training, IHHT includes phases with elevated oxygen concentrations that are used to optimize the training effects.

PRACTICALITY:

While altitude training requires access to mountainous regions, IHHT can be performed in specialized training centers or even with portable devices, making it a more accessible option for many people.