How many sessions will it take before I see improvement?

Some see improvement in as little as 3 sessions and some people can take as much as 12-20 sessions. Early improvements show themselves through an increased ability to breath more efficiently picking up more available oxygen for each breath taken. Following on from there (although initially maybe not faster) your old top speed or effort of activity will feel more manageable.

How do I book in for altitude sessions?

Everyone coming into the NZ Altitude Training Centre is given a free complimentary no obligation session and consultation. Once this is completed and you would like to proceed, your preferred times and days are discussed and booked subject to availability of those time slots.

Can I choose if I use treadmill or Watt bike at the Altitude Centre if doing active altitude training?

On your first consultation and complimentary session it is expected that you will use the bike or treadmill. Going forward you would complete sessions aligned with your goals. However, should you want to change from bike to treadmill or vice versa, a new assessment will need to be done as SpO2 values will differ due to different energy costs between walking or run and bike. There is no extra charge for this.

What is the percentage of air we live in at sea level compared to what I will experience training at the altitude centre?

At sea level you are breathing 20.9% oxygen. The machines at the altitude training centre can go as low as 10% oxygen or equivalent to 20.000 ft/6000 m. Seldom do we go as low as 10% and only in cases where someone is extremely experienced and well adapted. Although a very individual thing, best results can be found around the 2000-2750m mark, i.e. 16.4%-14.2% oxygen.

Do many climbers come into the Altitude Centre in preparation for trips to Kilimanjaro and other popular trekking destinations?

Yes, to date we have a 100% success rate for clients coming in for acclimatisation sessions who have gone on and climbed Kilimanjaro and other popular climbs. The centre offers both passive and active sessions. Many report a high level of confidence prior to leaving for their trips knowing they have done everything possible to prepare for a successful outcome.

Why should I do altitude training?

Regardless of what intensity you are at you can expect up to 20-30% more cardiovascular loading for the same effort. Altitude training is a well researched and recognised way of boosting one’s performance as oxygen delivery and uptake to working muscles is the limiting factor in sports performance. In other words, when you remove oxygen from working muscles while training they learn to become and use oxygen more efficiently on return to sea level.

Is altitude training legal?

Yes, altitude training is legal for all sports. The World Anti Doping Agency has declared that altitude training is legal after looking at all relevant issues declaring it to be fair with the reasoning that it levels the playing field for those not able to train and live at elevated locations.

Will I be allocated my own mask for altitude sessions when coming into the centre?

Generally first time people to the centre use the masks made available for sessions. Every mask is sterilized and washed after use including the strap that attaches the mask to your face. Each high altitude Hypoxico machine used also has a Hepa filter that purifys 99.9% of all airborne impurities. You do have the option of purchasing your own mask to use should you want to. This is recommended if your intention is to carry on with an extended number of sessions

What difference is there between real and simulated altitude training when using a machine?

With a high altitude machine you can get all the benefits of altitude training without time away and the expense that goes with that. Also you can carry it on for as long as you want continuing to tap into the long term benefits constant exposure offers.

Is altitude training safe for everyone?

People in countries all around the world live in high altitude locations without issue. However if you have any of the below conditions it is advised you do not undertake altitude training unless cleared by your doctor. Hemoglobin abnormalities,pulmonary conditions or epilepsy. If you are pregnant. Or have any immune suppressed issues.