As part of a training programme for the UTMB, altitude training is essential as it allows the body to adapt to the effects of the mountains and optimise your physical condition.
Why train at altitude before the UTMB?
At altitude, air density decreases, air moisture content (hygrometry) drops, and oxygen levels fall too. It is therefore essential that your body acclimatises to these new parameters. Furthermore, the reduced oxygen content in the air triggers the secretion of erythropoietin (EPO) in the kidneys, which then stimulates the production of a greater number of red blood cells by the bone marrow — resulting in improved performance through greater oxygen delivery to the muscles.
When should you do your altitude training?
A stay of at least one week will have a positive effect on your UTMB preparation, provided the event takes place within the following two to three months. It is also possible to plan an altitude stay for acclimatisation in the 15 days leading up to the event. Harder than training at sea level, altitude training can strain the muscles and requires a greater cardiovascular effort. You should therefore prioritise endurance work and avoid doing predominantly high-intensity sessions. For more information:
