Effect of Wearing the Elevation Training Mask on Aerobic Capacity, Lung Function, and Hematological Variables

INTRODUCTION: Altitude training has been shown to improve aerobic capacity (VO2max) in elite and well-trained athletes. A variety of methods have been developed to simulate the hematological benefits obtained when training at altitude. The Elevation Training Mask 2.0 (ETM) purportedly simulates altitude training and has been suggested to increase VO2max, endurance performance, and lung function. METHODS: Twenty-four moderately trained subjects completed 6 weeks of high-intensity cycle ergometer training. Subjects were randomized into a mask (n=12) and no mask (n=12) group. Pre and post-training tests included VO2max, pulmonary function, maximal inspiration pressure, hemoglobin and hematocrit. Results: No significant differences were found in pulmonary function or hematological variables between or within groups. There was a significant improvement in VO2max in both the control (13.5%) and mask (16.5%) groups. The mask group also had significant improvements in ventilatory threshold (VT) (13.9%), power output at VT (31 W), respiratory compensation threshold (RCT) (10.2%), and power output at RCT (39.9 W). CONCLUSIONS: Wearing the ETM while participating in a 6-week high-intensity cycle ergometer training program does not appear to improve pulmonary function or hematological variables. However, wearing the ETM may improve specific markers of endurance performance when compared to identical training without the mask.