high altitude training

Question 1

define altitude training

Answer 1

-High altitude training is a technique that can improve performance in aerobic activities

-This includes endurance events, e.g. long distance running

-Training at altitude means carrying out training activities in places that are 2000 m or more above sea level

Question 2

what are the benefits of training at altitude

Answer 2

-At altitude, the concentration of oxygen in the air is lower than it is at sea level

-Less oxygen enters the blood of a performer as they train, reducing blood oxygen concentration

-The body of the performer compensates for the decrease in oxygen by increasing the production of red blood cells

-When the performer returns to sea level, where air oxygen levels are higher, their blood can carry more oxygen than normal, aiding performance

Question 3

what are some limitations of altitude training

Answer 3

-Altitude training is of no benefit to performers in anaerobic disciplines, e.g. sprint or long jump

-Most performers need to travel in order to train at altitude; this may disrupt a training routine

-Training at altitude is very challenging, and many athletes end up training less than they might do at sea level, so fitness may be lost

-Some performers suffer from altitude sickness

-Red blood cell count returns to normal within a few weeks of returning to low altitudes, so the benefits are short-lived

Question 4

define aerobic

Answer 4

-Physical activity that increases the heart rate and the body’s use of oxygen. It helps improve a person’s physical fitness.

Question 5

define anaerobic

Answer 5

short, high-intensity bursts of activity where the body doesn’t rely on oxygen for energy