Kriemler, S., Zehnder, M., Kohler, M., Brunner, H., & Boutellier, U. (2006). Maximal aerobic performance of prepubertal children upon fast ascent to high altitude. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(5), Supplement abstract 2739.

"Aerobic performance is decreased in adults at high altitude compared to low altitude. It is not known, however, if prepubertal children show the same pattern as adults." Spiroergometry was performed in 20 father-child pairs at low altitude (460 m) and after five hours following fast ascent to high altitude (3,450 m).

Aerobic exercise performance and arterial oxygen saturation were similarly reduced at high altitude in children and adults. The only difference of short-term adaptation to between children and adults was maximum heart rate which did not change in children, while it decreased in adults.

Implication. Heart rate responds differently in children when compared to male adults upon exposure to high altitude.

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