The Effect of Altitude on the Anaerobic Energy System During a Maximal 60 Second Sprint on a Cycle Ergometer

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of altitude on the anaerobic performance during a maximal 60s sprint on a cycle ergometer. Methods: Seven female and 12 male college students volunteered to participate in the study. Each participant performed two separate 60s Wingate tests, once at an elevation of 90 m (~300 ft), and once at an altitude of 2,438 m (8,000 ft). Testing at altitude was simulated by an Everett Summit II Hypoxic Generator. Each subject was given a minimum of seven days between each test to ensure that they were well rested and recovered from the previous bout. Peak power, mean power, relative peak power, relative mean power, and fatigue index were measured. Data were analyzed via a paired sample t-test. Results: Significant differences were noted for both mean power (p = 0.012) and relative mean power (p = 0.008) for the sprint at 2,438 m (8,000 ft) of altitude. All other measured variables were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: This study, found no effect on peak power, relative peak power, or fatigue index in 2,438 m (8,000 ft) of altitude during a 60s maximal effort bout. However, mean power was reduced in altitude conditions. These results highlight that altitude exposure may reduce mean power during an acute, maximal bout of exercise.