Skip to main content

This link is exclusively for students and staff members within this organisation.

Unauthorised use will lead to account termination.

Previous

How a balanced diet helps sports performers

Next

Communications and the development of sport

EXAM FOCUS

Altitude effects

The environment in which an athlete performs can present significant physiological challenges. Adam Morton outlines how altitude can affect performance

The Denver Broncos’ stadium is 1610m above sea level

AQA, Edexcel and OCR all require an understanding of the physiological effects of altitude, and altitude training as a method of preparing for performance.

Athletic performance in many sports is affected by altitude. In track and field, altitudes as low as 150 m above sea level have been shown to impair performance in middle-and long-distance running events. Conversely, higher altitudes can improve performances in events such as the 100m and long jump. In this ‘Exam focus’ we will look at the problems posed by altitude, how the body responds in the short and long term (acclimatisation) and some of the effects of altitude on sporting performance.

Your organisation does not have access to this article.

Sign up today to give your students the edge they need to achieve their best grades with subject expertise

Subscribe

Previous

How a balanced diet helps sports performers

Next

Communications and the development of sport

Related articles: