Altitude training effects on erythropoietin and erythrocyte parameters in swimmers with different altitude training experience.

Abstract

Background: No studies have investigated the adaptability of altitude training in swimmers with different levels of altitude training experience. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of varying altitude training experience in swimmers by examining changes in erythropoietin (EPO) and erythrocyte parameters over a 31-day altitude training period. The findings provide a theoretical basis for understanding the adaptive effects of altitude training and the internal mechanisms underlying changes in functional state.

Methods: Sixteen swimmers were divided into two groups based on their altitude training experience: MATE and LATE. All participants underwent altitude training at the Kunming Haigeng Physical Training Base in China. Venous blood samples were collected in the morning on days 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31 of the training programs to measure levels of EPO, hemoglobin (HGB), red blood cell count (RBC), and other physiological indicators.

Results: For the MATE group, significant differences in EPO levels were observed on days 17 and 31 compared to days 3 and 10. Additionally, day 31 showed significant differences in EPO levels compared to days 17 and 24. Significant changes in RBC levels were noted on days 17 and 24 compared to day 10. Significant differences were also found in the levels of RETp, RETc, and IRF on days 10, 17 and 24 compared to day 3, and on days 24 and 31 compared to day 17. For the LATE group, EPO levels on day 31 showed significant differences compared to all previous days. RBC levels on day 10 were significantly different from day 3. Significant differences in RETp, RETc, and IRF levels were observed on days 10 and 31 compared to day 3, and on days 24 and 31 compared to day 10.

Conclusions: Swimmers with more altitude training experiences exhibit better adaptability than those with less experiences. HGB levels are maintained at high levels that indicate an enhanced blood oxygen-carrying capacity, enabling swimmers to efficiently adjust to variations in oxygen partial pressure within a hypoxic environment.