Summary • Altitude training provides variety in training venues, terrain, and training load, all of which can be very useful for maintaining athletes` interest during long training periods. The altitude training combined with the unique terrain (often lots of hill work) and the novelty of the new environment can lead to exceptional form 1-6 weeks following the altitude camp. • Just because an athlete doesn`t increase Hbmass and V02max doesn`t mean that they can`t benefit from altitude training. There are many other physiological adaptations that occur with altitude training, but all of these adaptations tend to be best in athletes who are healthy, sleeping well, eating appropriately and training within their limits, as well as generally staying stress free. • Although much scientific attention has focused on the best altitude at which athletes should train, future research will likely focus on the best type of training at different altitudes. • The time course of altitude adaptations may be quicker than expected (less than 2 weeks). • Whilst increased V02max or muscle buffer capacity after altitude training have the potential to improve competitive performance, there is no guarantee. Performance is modulated by the rest of preparation (e.g. taper) and motivation. • There are a number of "risk factors" that could impair desired adaptations; most of these risk factors can be minimised to increase the chance of desired adaptations. • A great altitude camp builds on to a great training camp. Scientists that neglect the fundamental aspects of good training camps may not see desired performance responses even when the intensity and duration of the altitude camp fits within scientific recommendations.
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