Hemoglobin mass and performance responses during 4weeks of normobaric “live high–train low and high”

• Published in: Scandinavian journal of medicine & science in sports 2023-08, Vol.33 (8), p.1335-1344
• Main Authors: Kettunen, Oona, Leppävuori, Antti, Mikkonen, Ritva, Peltonen, Juha E, Nummela, Ari, Wikström, Bettina, Linnamo, Vesa
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Hemoglobin; Hypoxia
• ISSN: 0905-7188; 1600-0838
• DOI: 10.1111/sms.14378

PurposeTo investigate whether 4 weeks of normobaric “live high–train low and high” (LHTLH) causes different hematological, cardiorespiratory, and sea‐level performance changes compared to living and training in normoxia during a preparation season.MethodsNineteen (13 women, 6 men) cross‐country skiers competing at the national or international level completed a 28‐day period (∼18 h day−1) of LHTLH in normobaric hypoxia of ∼2400 m (LHTLH group) including two 1 h low‐intensity training sessions per week in normobaric hypoxia of 2500 m while continuing their normal training program in normoxia. Hemoglobin mass (Hbmass) was assessed using a carbon monoxide rebreathing method. Time to exhaustion (TTE) and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) were measured using an incremental treadmill test. Measurements were completed at baseline and within 3 days after LHTLH. The control group skiers (CON) (seven women, eight men) performed the same tests while living and training in normoxia with ∼4 weeks between the tests.ResultsHbmass in LHTLH increased 4.2 ± 1.7% from 772 ± 213 g (11.7 ± 1.4 g kg−1) to 805 ± 226 g (12.5 ± 1.6 g kg−1) (p