Hypoxia and Medicine

Do you think training at high altitudes to improve endurance is fairer than using performance aiding drugs?

Just want to see what everyone thinks about it.. personally, I thought that it was fairer as they are still winning the competition without artificial aids but I then read that the effects of high altitude training is similar than using some drugs! x

Public Comments

1. but its natural and you cant ban anyone who lives up a mountain so to create a level playing field anyone can train up a mountain if they so wish next you'll be banning anyone who comes from an island from the swimming cos they have an unfair advantage
2. It's fairer. Without a doubt. Even if it is the case that high altitude training has the same effect as some drugs the fact is that, as you say, they are in the competition without artificial aid. But also the big difference is that performance aiding drugs are an easy way out of training and working hard whereas high altitude training requires a huge amount of effort because not only is it training which is, in itself difficult. But at high altitudes everything becomes so much more strenuous, you have to work harder, drink more and it's a lot easier to become ill from sicknesses brought on by the higher altitude. So it's a HUGE amount of effort required. So yes, it is much fairer.
3. It's not against the rules, or more important it's not illega. Go for it if you can.l
4. If you say it is like taking drugs then everyone who lives and trains at a certain altitude would be banned. Then you would have no one competing from high altitudes .Drugs are cheating .High altitude training is conditioning the body to perform on less oxygen uptake and available to all athletes
5. it is harder on the body to train high altitude. you will become a much better all around athlete ,with high altitude training. your CARD system will be world class. your endurance way beyond a enhancement user. high altitude will increase oxygen to body, this will improve reaction time , enhancements will slow this down. also due to hi8high altitude your brain will receive singles faster. these are all pr oven facts. of all the supposed future superstars who ask drug questions . yours is a brilliant post congratulations for your insight.