Katayama, K., Sato, K., Hotta, N., Ishida, K., Iwasaki, K.-I., Miyamura, M. (2006). Effect of intermittent hypoxia on exercise ventilation at a simulated moderate altitude. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(5), Supplement abstract 2730.

This study evaluated the influences of short-term intermittent hypoxia during a resting state on the ventilatory response to exercise at simulated moderate altitude. Trained male runners (N = 18) were assigned to three groups, the first hypoxic group (N = 6; the oxygen levels ~15.5%; simulated altitude of 2500 m), a second hypoxic group (N = 6; oxygen levels ~12.3%; simulated altitude of 4300 m), and a control group (N = 6). The hypoxic tent system was used for intermittent hypoxia for one hour per day for one week.

In the simulated higher altitude group, the resting hypoxic ventilatory response increased significantly, while there were no changes in the lower altitude or control groups.

Implication. Short-term, brief exposures to simulated hypoxia do not alter most factors associated with ventilation.

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