Altitude training

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Altitude training

Since the beginning of the twentieth century the effects of altitude on physical performance have been catalogued by mountaineers. The decision was made to hold the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City at the altitude of 2242 metres (7450 feet) resulted in intense physiological research into the human acclimatisation.

Sports people who train at high altitude suffer from acute drops in performance in sport that rely on aerobic capacity. This is due to the lack of oxygen. As shown in the diagrams 1a,b, c the oxygen transport system at sea level and at altitude before and after acclimatisation. The amount at which the haemoglobin is saturated with oxygen depends on the partial pressure of the alveolar air.

At sea level, the partial pressure of oxygen in the air is sufficient to ensure that the haemoglobin is fully saturated. At altitude, the partial pressure is much less in the atmosphere, therefore resulting in that the haemoglobin will not be fully saturated. Also because of this there will be less oxygen being carried around the body to the muscles tissues and the aerobic working capacity of these tissues is reduced.

There are different types of major physiological changes occur in the body as a result of acclimatisation.

Increase in blood haemoglobin concentration:

During acclimatisation there is an increase in red blood cell count and therefore an increase in haemoglobin concentration as that is where it is found. The haemoglobin is still not fully saturated with oxygen. The increase of red blood cell count is brought about by the increase in the manufacture of red blood cells, which is a rapid response to cope with the altitude, and there is a reduction of plasma volume, which is a slow response to the result of the acclimatisation.

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Increased rate of breathing:

To compensate for the decrease in the alveoli, breathing rate increases. This response develops of several days and not instantly. The demand for oxygen is the same except that the partial pressure is low therefore a fast and more frequent supply is needed. The increase in breathing reduces the partial pressure of carbon dioxide, which makes the blood too alkaline. This is a problem, so the kidneys secrete more alkaline in the urine to accommodate the problem.

Net effect:

The net effect of the human acclimatisation to altitude is to improve the ...

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This is a well researched report, although it lacks structure. 1. The report has no subheading. 2. The report needs a conclusion. 3. Researched information needs to be referenced. 4. There is no reference section. ***