ACUTE EXPOSURE TO LOW ALTITUDE CAUSES AEROBIC PERFORMANCE TO DECLINE

Sucec, A. A., Stenqvist, J., Abbott, K., & Dunn, R. (2004). Endurance performance and lactate threshold decline at low altitude (1,410 m) in female and male distance runners. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 36(5), Supplement abstract 758.

Trained runners (M = 6; F = 6) underwent acute exposure to an altitude of 1,410 m. Half Ss ran a 3-km time trial first at sea level and then altitude while the other half reversed the order.

3-km time increased and running velocity at lactate threshold declined at altitude. Heart rates were similar at both altitudes. No gender differences were evidenced.

Implication. Acute exposure to a low altitude (1,410 m) significantly increased run time and reduced lactate threshold velocity.

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