The effect of extensive interval training at altitude on the physiological, aerobic, anaerobic and various blood parameters of athletes

Dumlupinar University School of Physical Education and Sport, Kütahya, Turkey

^a Corresponding author: ismail.kaya@dpu.edu.tr

Abstract

In this research, it was aimed to compare the physiological performances of athletes at sea level, at high altitude and 8 days after returning back to sea level on the basis of certain blood parameters, pulse and blood pressure. 12 male athletes between the ages of 19 and 23 voluntarily participated in the research. The subjects were exposed to endurance training at high altitude and at sea level between 09.00 and 11.00 in the morning. The subjects’ erythrocyte (RBC), leucocyte (WBC), haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit (HCT), systolic blood pressure at rest (SBPR) and diastolic blood pressure at rest (DBPR), heart rate at rest (HRR), aerobic (20m shuttle run test) and anaerobic capacity (vertical jump) levels were tested at sea level, on the 15th day at high altitude (3120m) and 8 days after returning back to sea level. Statistical analysis comprised of t-test and the significance level of the results was accepted at (P<0.05). As a result of the research the following were determined: It can be said that high altitude trainings for fifteen days included in the annual training program of athletes can improve their performance.