The Truth About Hypoxic Training and Oxygen Reducing Masks
I have yet to try one of these although I have reached out to one of the companies that manufactures them. The idea behind it, is the body will be deprived of oxygen making the heart work harder while working out an an easier pace. This can save the legs when harder workouts are needed at a higher heart rate. The issue I have with this is two-fold. The first is the body needs easy recovery runs and while your legs will be getting this on days of wearing the mask, your heart will not be. Secondly, any true physiologic adaptation to oxygen deprivation such as at higher altitudes takes many months to occur of living there- not just 30-60 minute exposures as with a mask. Not so sure this is a good idea!
Let’s talk about why masks have been around since 2009 and most people are only hearing about it now, in 2014.
Source: The Truth About Hypoxic Training and Oxygen Reducing Masks
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About The Author
Dr. Nick Campitelli
Dr. Campitelli is a podiatrist in Akron, OH specializing in foot and ankle surgery with an interest and enthusiasm for running as well as helping runners with injuries. For the past several years he has been treating running injuries in patients by fixing their form and transitioning them to minimalist shoes. Having treated runners with all types of injuries through conservative measures with orthotics and shoe gear changes to reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, Dr. Campitelli has brought what works best and is most current to his practice as well as the Akron and Cleveland running communities.
Also, would it not make more sense to wear it while NOT training so you’re not hindering your athletic stimulus for adaptation. That’s the idea behind the “Trail Low Live High” method at altitude. Training at a higher altitude reduces the effectiveness of your workouts.
Hello Dr,
What is your opinion on Dimok hypoxic mask?
https://trainingmasklab.com/reviews/dimok-hypoxic-workout-mask-review/