Centre of Excellence for Altitude and Hypoxic Training
Lee Mears training the hypoxic chamber. Photo: DigitalScape
Hypoxic training or simulated altitude training uses a system of specially-designed generators to remove oxygen from the air, thus creating an environment with lower ambient oxygen concentrations.
This is similar to the athlete being at altitude in that there is less available oxygen for them to breathe.
This situation increases the physiological load placed upon the athlete, which in turn can lead to increases in physiological fitness and ultimately performance
The Methods
Two types of hypoxic training are available at the Centre, as follows:
Exercising in Hypoxic conditions
Exercising in a chamber, breathing air containing just 15% oxygen (as opposed to 21% of normal air conditions), equivalent to an altitude of ~2950m or almost 9000ft.
Intermittent Hypoxic Training
No physical exertion involved as the individual simply sits to breathe low oxygen air (9-12%) alternated with room air at 5-minute intervals.
For more information about these methods of hypoxic training, please contact us.
The Uses
The application of hypoxic training methods varies from performance benefits to an additional injury rehabilitation tool.
Exercising in Hypoxic conditions
- Rehabilitation tool
As an athlete recovers from an injury, they are able to physiologically challenge themselves (through elevated heart rate) without causing any damage to their rehabilitation programme. Therefore, an athlete’s fitness may be regained or maintained whilst they are unable to physically complete their normal sessions, on the pitch for example.
- Acclimatisation
Whether an athlete is completing a trek up Mount Kilamanjaro or racing at altitude, some sessions in the chamber prior to their departure will ensure their body is prepared to some extent for the challenge ahead.
Intermittent Hypoxic Training
- Rehabilitation tool
Physiological benefits of elevating heart rate and breathing rate, despite no physical exertion. They may progress from here to exercising in the hypoxic chamber, as part of a progressive injury rehab and return to fitness plan.
- Additional training load
Providing an additional training load for fit athletes, without the need or demands of further physical training sessions.
To discuss your needs for hypoxic training, please contact us now.
Testimonials
Lee Mears, hooker for Bath Rugby, England & The British & Irish Lions, 2009:
“The facilities at the University of Bath are great and when the opportunity for altitude training came along, I thought it would be really good idea.”
“It’s pretty hot in the chamber and your body is getting less oxygen, so you have to work that little bit harder.”
Read more about how Team Bath’s sport scientists are helping Lee by clicking here.
Watch the BBC Points West coverage of Lee Mears training in preparation for the British & Irish Lions rugby tour to South Africa in 2009, by following this link:
