The goal and purpose of this Master thesis is to establish the possibilities of using modern model of altitude training »live low – train high« in kinesiology. For this purpose, a systematic review of research was conducted as part of the master thesis, studying the effects of the modern model of altitude training on the improvement of sports performance and health in clinical populations.
Altitude training is becoming one of the most frequently added means of training that enable athletes or patients to challenge a greater metabolic load and consequently greater physical adaptations with the same (or lesser) mechanical load. Modern methods of altitude training require individuals to perform some active or passive training units when on lowland in continuous or intermittent hypoxia with a stronger hypoxic stimulus than usually experienced during longer preparations and staying at high altitudes. In the introduction we therefore described and defined the state of hypoxia and explained its physiological consequences and the physical adjustments that are necessary to successfully cope with hypoxia.
In the discussion we defined the altitude training model »live low – train high« and accurately described the forms of hypoxia simulation on the lowlands and the altitude training methods covered by the model. We presented our research findings and examined the main physiological and physical adaptations that can lead to improved sports performance and health at altitude and/or lowland, and based on this, we prepared meaningful practical guidelines. We found that the modern methods of altitude training covered by the model mainly provoke adaptations in the local muscle tissue. Active methods in systemic hypoxia, which use (supra) maximal intense efforts, showed the greatest potential for improving sports performance on the lowlands. The use of passive or submaximal intensive active methods in systemic or local hypoxia has proven to be useful especially in improving sports performance at (high) altitudes, at ergogenic effect before sports performances and at alternative treatment of various chronic diseases or musculoskeletal injuries. This Master thesis offers the sports profession a more accurate understanding of the modern model of altitude training, its application in elite sports and clinical populations. Based on the findings, the thesis dictates to use the method of repeated sprints in hypoxia in elite sports for best results, while the method of intermittent hypoxic exposures combined with exercise and occlusive exercise methods is most useful in clinical populations.
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