This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of alternating altitude training and fixed-altitude training on physical performance and physiological adaptations in elite race walkers living at altitude. Elite race walkers from Yunnan Province will be randomly assigned to either an alternating altitude training group or a fixed-altitude training group. The alternating altitude training group will perform selected training sessions under simulated higher-altitude conditions while completing the remaining sessions at their regular altitude training base. The fixed-altitude training group will complete all training sessions at the regular altitude. Physical performance, race walking performance, cardiovascular function, pulmonary function, and hematological parameters will be assessed before and after the intervention to evaluate the effectiveness of the two altitude training strategies.
Inclusion Criteria:
Healthy and medically cleared to participate in high-intensity training and hypoxic exposure.
Able to complete the prescribed training program and all outcome assessments. Provided written informed consent before enrollment. For participants younger than 18 years, written informed consent will also be obtained from a parent or legal guardian.
Exclusion Criteria:
Musculoskeletal injury or illness affecting normal training or performance within the previous three months.
Current use of medications or supplements that may substantially influence physiological adaptation or exercise performance.
Failure to complete the intervention or outcome assessments according to the study protocol.
Withdrawal of informed consent at any time during the study.
research_ethics@ipm.edu.mo+853 8591 2000
Participants perform the prescribed training program using an alternating altitude strategy, with selected training sessions conducted under simulated higher-altitude conditions and the remaining sessions completed at the regular altitude training base.
Participants perform the same prescribed training program entirely at the regular altitude training base throughout the intervention.
Physiological Adaptations to Simulated Intermittent Altitude on Human Health and Performance
Effects of a 4-Week Altitude Training on Sport-Specific Performance, Body Composition, and Cardiac and Pulmonary Function in Adolescent Male Rowers
Effects of Moderate Altitude Training on Metabolic Parameters in Voluntary Study Participants With Metabolic Syndrome
Effect of Hot Spring Therapy on Cognitive Function Recovery During Altitude Training
Effect of Hot Spring Therapy on Autonomic Nervous System and Exercise Performance During Altitude Training
Breathing Training to Improve Human Performance at High Altitude
Effect of Hot Spring Therapy on Central Fatigue Elimination During Altitude Training
Effects of Cyclic Variations in Altitude Conditioning (CVAC) on Wellness and Activity Measures