Ming, H., Hsing-Chou, L., Che-Wen, H., Hsing-Hao, L., Chien-Wen, H., & Chia-Hua, K. (June 03, 2010). Effect of altitude training on muscle oxygen saturation in long distance runners. Presentation 1987 at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; June 2-5.

This study examined the effect of one week of altitude training on endurance capacity and muscle oxygen saturation levels in long-distance runners (N = 13). Also determined were its effects on serum erythropoiesis. Ss were trained at 1,850 m altitude for one week and performed a 3,000 m running test. Serum erythropoietin concentration, red blood cell volume, endurance capacity, and muscle oxygen saturation were monitored before and after altitude training and one week after the training.

There was no change in serum erythropoietin concentration and red blood cell volume in athletes before and after altitude training. However, muscle oxygen saturation levels were improved significantly.

Implication. One week of altitude training can improve aerobic endurance capacity, independent of erythropoiesis.

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