Abstract
The test was performed 4 times: an initial test at a lowland (900m ASL) prior to departure for altitude, two tests at altitude (1850m ASL), a final test 10 days after returning to the lowlands.The aerobic, anaerobic and critical intensities were set by graded load test.For all individual tests the subjects maintained the same heart rate individually defined for the various segments using a heart rate monitor. Changes in speed between the tests were compared.
The body's internal response was also monitored by the concentration of lactate (2 and 8 minutes after each exertion). Subjects: 11 well-trained adolescent cross-country skiers.The average times attained in the first altitude test for aerobic and anaerobic load were higher (p<0.05) than in the entry test at lowland.
In the second altitude test the average times for all intensities were significantly (p<0.05) higher than in the first altitude test. In the tests after returning to the lowlands the times attained for all intensities were on average higher than at altitude.
Thus it is physiologically suitable for adolescents, as with adults, to include altitude training with the objective of a subsequent rise in performance in lowlands. In accordance with the principles of a long-term approach to sports training corresponding to development, however, we believe that the use of higher altitudes is unnecessary for adolescents.