Exercise in Altitude

Question 1

why is the air thinner at altitude

Answer 1

Due to lower barometic pressure

Question 2

what is different in terms of oxygen levels at altitude in comparison to sea level environments

Answer 2

There is thinner air meaning there is less absolute oxygen available resulting in hypoxia. The lower oxygen availability at altitude translates to lower oxygen availability in inspired air, and therefore the amount of oxygen transported in the blood to the working muscles.

Question 3

what is hypoxia

Answer 3

Is a lack of adequate oxygen

Question 4

what effect do low levels/thinner air have on the body

Answer 4

The lack of oxygen at altitude impairs the maximal rate of oxygen consumption. Low levels of oxygen can affect replenishing creatine phosphate stores and remove lactic acid if sprinting.

Question 5

what events/sports may benefit from high altitude environments

Answer 5

Exercises such as a one-off sprint or power events may be enhanced due to lower air resistance and drag.

Question 6

list 5 acute physiological adaptations in altitude

Answer 6

1. decrease of oxygen in the blood (hypoxemia)
2. increase in respiratory rate
3. increased tidal volume
4. increased heart rate
5. decrease in stroke and plasma volume

Question 7

when are acute physiological adaptions experienced

Answer 7

within the first 24 hours

Question 8

what are 5 chronic physiological adaptations in altitude

Answer 8

1. increased capillarisation
2. increased haemoglobin volume and concentration
3. increased blood cells
4. increased aerobic enzymes
5. increased myoglobin

Question 9

describe increased capillarisation

Answer 9

Results in an increased ability to supply oxygen and blood to the muscles

Question 10

describe increases haomoglobin volume and concentration

Answer 10

This increases the amount of oxygen in the blood

Question 11

describe increased blood cells

Answer 11

Allows more red blood cells to carry oxygen across the body

Question 12

describe increased aerobic enzymes

Answer 12

This improves the body’s use of oxygen to produce energy/ATP faster

Question 13

describe increase myoglobin

Answer 13

This allows oxygen to be stored in muscles

Question 14

describe The live high - Train low principle

Answer 14

Athletes will live at altitude or in altitude hypoxia tents to stimulate 2000 metres above sea level. They would then return to sea level for training sessions.

Question 15

why would athletes use The live high - Train low principle

Answer 15

• Athletes will obtain long-term advantages.
• They cannot train at altitude for long periods as benefits do not allow for the same intensity of training at sea level.
• Training at low altitudes allows for quality training sessions to be completed at maximal intensity.