Exercise in High-Altitude Environments

Ashley Laible

Atmospheric Pressure

• As altitude increases atmospheric pressure decreases.

http://www.microwaves101.com/encyclopedia/atmosphericpressure.cfm

Partial Pressure of O2

• Partial pressure of oxygen in the air decreases at high altitudes. • Hemoglobin carries less O2 at high altitudes.

Journal of Applied Physiology 46: 599-602, 1979)

Classifications

• Exercise performance begins to decreases at moderate altitude.– Very high altitude: >14000 ft– High altitude: 8000-1400 ft– Moderate altitude: 5000-8000 ft– Low altitude: <5000 ft

http://www.sport-fitness-advisor.com/acclimatization-to-altitude.html

Altitude Illness

• Acute mountain sickness- headache, nausea, fatigue, decreased appetite, and poor sleep.

• high-altitude pulmonary edema- crackles and rales in the lungs, blue lips and nailbeds.

• high-altitude cerebral edema- confusion, fatigue, headache, vomiting

Acclimatization• Acclimatization is the best way to prevent altitude

sickness. • Consists of physiologic adaptations to moderate or

high altitudes that develop over time. • Exercise and work will become easier if acclimatized

to the altitude.

MOUNT ACONCAGUA

Acclimatization Example

http://www.aconcaguaexpeditions.com/ingles/expediciones/polishtraverse-twofaces.html

Exercise• Exercise should be limited the first few days at

high altitude to prevent altitude illness.• Target heart rates will be reached at a lower

work load at higher altitudes.• As acclimatization occurs target heart rates will be achieved at a higher workload.

Other Considerations

• Proper clothing• Sunscreen• Hazardous terain• Emergency medical plan• Knowledge of signs and symptoms of altitude

illness