Human Acclimatization and Physical Performance at High Altitude

Abstract : A number of physiological adjustments occur when man is exposed to the hypoxia of high altitude. One of the most significant is a reduction in his maximal aerobic exercise performance. The component of systematic oxygen transport responsible for the early reduction in maximal aerobic power is the low arterial oxygen content, whereas decreased cardiac output is the reason for the persistence of the impairment after several days at high altitude. Keywords: Altitude, Strength(Physiology), Endurance, Hypoxia, Altitude sickness, Altitude acclimatization, Arterial oxygen content.