**Taos Tech: Altitude Air Inflating Fitness Heart Lies?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe promise of effortless gains is a siren song, especially in the world of athletic performance. Companies like Taos Tech, nestled in the high desert of New Mexico, capitalize on this desire, marketing altitude simulation devices with claims of enhanced cardiovascular performance and weight loss. But are these claims grounded in solid science, or are they simply preying on the aspirations of athletes seeking an edge? Let’s dissect the science, scrutinize the marketing, and offer some grounded advice for athletes training in high-altitude havens like Boulder, Colorado, and Flagstaff, Arizona, or even those considering a trip to Utah or Wyoming for altitude training.
The allure of altitude training is undeniable. At higher elevations, the air is thinner, meaning less oxygen is available. This forces the body to adapt, primarily by producing more red blood cells to carry oxygen. More red blood cells theoretically translate to improved endurance and performance at sea level.
Taos Tech and similar companies offer devices that simulate this hypoxic environment without requiring a move to the mountains. These devices typically involve masks or tents that reduce the oxygen concentration in the air you breathe. The question is: do they deliver the same benefits as real altitude training?
The science is mixed, to say the least. Some studies suggest that simulated altitude training can indeed increase red blood cell mass and improve VO2 max (a measure of cardiovascular fitness). However, many of these studies are small, poorly controlled, or funded by the companies selling these devices. This introduces a significant risk of bias.
Furthermore, the magnitude of the effect is often much smaller than what’s observed with real altitude training. A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that while simulated altitude training did lead to some improvements in performance, the gains were significantly less than those achieved by athletes who trained at a comparable real altitude.
One of the biggest challenges with simulated altitude training is replicating the entire physiological environment of high altitude. Real altitude involves not only lower oxygen levels but also lower air pressure, lower humidity, and increased solar radiation. These factors can all influence the body’s response to training.
For example, the lower air pressure at altitude can affect breathing mechanics and fluid balance. The increased solar radiation can increase the risk of dehydration and sunburn. Simulated altitude devices typically only address the oxygen concentration, ignoring these other crucial variables.
Another pitfall is the potential for overtraining. Athletes often push themselves too hard when using altitude simulation devices, believing that they need to compensate for the lower oxygen levels. This can lead to fatigue, injury, and a decline in performance.
Consider the experience of a marathon runner in Boulder, Colorado, preparing for the Boston Marathon. They might be tempted to use an altitude simulation mask during their training runs, hoping to gain an extra edge. However, if they’re already training at a moderate altitude (Boulder sits at over 5,000 feet), the added stress of simulated altitude could easily push them over the edge into overtraining.
So, what are the safer, evidence-based alternatives for boosting athletic performance, especially for those already training in high-altitude states like Utah and Wyoming?
First and foremost, prioritize real altitude training when possible. If you live in or near a high-altitude area, take advantage of it. Spend time training at higher elevations, but be sure to acclimatize gradually to avoid altitude sickness.
- Start with shorter workouts at altitude and gradually increase the duration and intensity.
- Pay attention to your body and rest when you need to.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet.
Second, focus on optimizing your training at your current altitude. This means working with a qualified coach to develop a training plan that’s tailored to your individual needs and goals. It also means paying attention to the fundamentals of training, such as proper nutrition, sleep, and recovery.
Third, consider using other evidence-based strategies to improve performance. These might include:
- Strength training: Building strength can improve running economy and reduce the risk of injury.
- Plyometrics: Plyometric exercises can improve power and explosiveness.
- Cross-training: Cross-training can help to prevent overuse injuries and improve overall fitness.
Let’s say you’re a cyclist training in Flagstaff, Arizona. Instead of relying on an altitude simulation device, you could focus on improving your climbing ability by incorporating hill repeats into your training. You could also work on your sprint power by doing interval training on a flat course. And you could supplement your cycling with strength training and plyometrics to improve your overall fitness.
Finally, it’s crucial to be skeptical of marketing claims that seem too good to be true. Companies like Taos Tech often use misleading language and cherry-picked studies to promote their products. Always do your own research and consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any altitude simulation device.
The bottom line is this: while altitude training can be a valuable tool for improving athletic performance, simulated altitude devices are not a magic bullet. They may offer some benefits, but the evidence is mixed, and the risks of overtraining are real. Focus on the fundamentals of training, prioritize real altitude training when possible, and be skeptical of marketing hype. Your body will thank you for it.