TFT91: Altitude Masks For Hikers
The Training For Trekking Podcast
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Show Notes
In this episode I discuss Altitude Masks (also known as Elevation Masks) and whether they are an effective training tool for hikers, trekkers or mountaineers heading off on a high altitude adventure.
One of the most common questions I hear from aspiring trekkers is:
"Should I be training with an 'altitude mask'. Will it help me?"
Now on the off chance you haven't seen one of these, they are the big black gas mask looking things, which people strap to their face while they train. Due to some clever marketing (using professional athletes) these things blew onto the scene a few years ago and have become super popular.
Everyone is always looking for an 'edge' to their training. And, in theory, these masks might give you one. But in practice, do they actually work?
In this episode, we explore:
- What 'altitude' masks actually do (and how they apparently 'simulate' altitude)
- Does an altitude mask help prepare you for high altitude
- Can an altitude mask help improve your endurance performance
- Can an elevation mask strengthen your breathing muscles?
- Is an elevation mask a good way to improve mental strength
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