Effects of Altitude Training on Recovery Ability and Maximum Oxygen Consumption of Elite Male Taekwondo

Abstract

Background and Aim: To investigate the effects of high-altitude training on the physical recovery capacity and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) of elite male Taekwondo athletes. Methods: The study employed a combination of literature review, mathematical statistics, and experimental methods, with a primary focus on experimental approaches. (1) Study Participants: The study participants were elite male Taekwondo athletes who resided in plain areas and had a minimum of 5 years of training and competitive experience. (2) Variables Measured: The variables measured included resting heart rate (morning pulse), blood oxygen saturation, exercise heart rate, and maximal oxygen consumption.Results: (1) Five weeks of high-altitude training and exposure to a low-oxygen environment did not significantly affect the morning pulse of the athletes. (2) The 5-week high-altitude training resulted in a significant increase in blood oxygen saturation among the participants, with the most significant increase observed in the fourth week. On average, the blood oxygen saturation of the athletes increased by 3.51%. (3) Compared to the plain areas, the athletes showed no significant differences in resting heart rate and maximal heart rate before exercise. However, their heart rate exhibited a faster decline at the 3, 5, and 10-minute intervals of recovery. (4) The 5-week high-altitude training significantly improved the athletes' VO2max, enhancing their cardiopulmonary function and overall performance. Conclusion: High-altitude training can effectively enhance blood oxygen saturation, facilitate rapid post-exercise heart rate recovery, improve VO2max, and subsequently impact the athletes' physical recovery capacity.