Effect of ascent to a moderate altitude on muscle performance in different strength manifestations

Abstract

Altitude training plays an important role in the physical preparation of athletes around the world with the expectation of improving sea level performance. Traditionally, research about altitude training has focused on endurance performance and related parameters (e.g., maximum oxygen consumption, total haemoglobin mass, etc). The effectiveness of altitude training strategies in the development of endurance performance is generally recognised (Bonetti & Hopkins, 2009). However, the effect of altitude training on the performance of explosive actions remains virtually unexplored. Swimmers are amongst the athletes who use altitude training most often. Therefore, it is reasonable to explore the effects of a traditional altitude training camp held at moderate altitude (2320 m asl) on swimming start performance, which is the swimming skill most dependent on explosive force and lower-body muscular power.

The main objective of the present Doctoral Thesis was to examine the effect of altitude training on unloaded and loaded jump squat and swimming start performance. In addition, the present research work also aimed to refine the methodology of strength testing and to explore the relationship between different strength manifestations and swimming start performance.