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► Preparation for AltitudePreparation for altitude

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Benefits of being active at altitude

Whatever the altitude, the proportion of the different gases that make up air remain the same - just under 21% oxygen, 78% Nitrogen and 1% trace gases. What does change at altitude is the air density. This means that the higher the altitude, the fewer oxygen molecules there are in a given volume of air. This in turn means that there are fewer oxygen molecules to be transferred into the bloodstream via the lungs.

Runner on the summitThe well-documented physiological effects of specific training, or just being active, at altitude, cited by Edmund R. Burke, Ph.D., University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, include:

  • Increased natural hormone erythropoietin (EPO) production, which in turn increases red blood cell mass for delivering oxygen to muscle cells and converting it into energy.
  • A boost in total blood volume to move oxygen more efficiently through your bloodstream.
  • An increase in V02 max-the maximum amount of oxygen the body can convert to work, giving you more stamina for the long haul.
  • Cranked-up hematocrit levels to provide a greater percentage of cells carrying oxygen.
  • Elevated capillary volume, creating more blood pathways to muscle cells for improved muscle oxygenation.
  • A higher volume of mitochondria--the powerhouses in cells that help your body turn oxygen into energy.
  • An increase in the lungs' ability to exchange gases efficiently - so that every breath you take more oxygen gets into the bloodstream.

Timberline lake - Active at Altitude

Ground breaking research by Dr. Ben Levine and Dr. Jim Stray-Gundersen in the mid 1990's demonstrated that to maximize the benefit of altitude training, you should live high and train lower. This has been used to great effect by a number of the World's elite endurance athletes. Furthermore, it was also demonstrated that significant gains could be made by athletes of different ability levels - anyone can benefit from using this training principle, while at the same time you have an opportunity to discover a beautiful part of the USA and train with other athletes. What could be better!

Testimonials

"Active at Altitude is a perfect launch pad for training at altitude. The views from Terry and Jacqui's warm accommodations are inspiring and it is easy to get to trailheads, whether in Estes Park or RMNP."
Adam Chase, President ATRA, ultra runner and adventure racer, trail editor for Running Times
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Featured Products - as used by Active at Altitude...

zeal optics logo - Active at Altitude   Skins logo - Active at Altitude   La Sportiva logo - Active at Altitude
zeal optics - Polarized eyewear ...see a better world! use active25 code
  SKINS - less fatigue, muscle soreness & recover faster   La Sportiva - best trail running shoes - my faves - Crosslites
         
icespike logo - Active at Altitude     mix1 logo - Active at Altitude
IceSpike - the ultimate non-slip grip shoe system! Great traction whatever the weather
  Asea - the exciting supplement that increases endurance & improves recovery   Mix1 - highest quality all natural ingredients - excellent recovery fuel -as used at our camps
         
Coda coffee   acli-mate   Hydrapouch
Coda coffee - we use Coda products in our lodge - free shipping on 2+ bags!   Acli-Mate - prepare for acclimatization to higher altitudes - great taste & natural!   Hydrapouch - cup free training and racing - help save the environment!

 

114 Timber Lane, Estes Park, CO 80517
970-586-4432 / 303-304-9159

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