As athletes prepare for altitude, there are many questions that start to pop up. How long will it take me to acclimatize? How do I limit the risk of altitude sickness? How will this affect my performance? These questions can create doubt and uncertainty in your ability. When this happens, it is better to listen to the voice of reason.

At COROS we have the privilege of working with one of the best athletes in the world at altitudes over 18,000 feet. Luke Smithwick is a skier who also climbs the highest mountains in the world including the summit of Everest many times.

a question:

How long do you think it takes to acclimatize to the altitude? Does it differ as you go up? For athletes who climb from sea level to the highest mountains, what is the best advice you can give?

Answer:

Some of the best mountain hikers on the planet acclimatize slowly. We all acclimate at different times. Approach the altitude with a conservative acclimatization schedule, allowing time for rest days and acclimatization not only on the mountain, but on the climb. At extreme altitude (above 5500 m / 18,000 ft), more time is required for the body to acclimatize. This is done by climbing high, sleeping low to   "cheat" the body into making more red blood cells.

a question:

Skiing can be a demanding sport! How do you train to cope with skiing at high altitude?

Answer:

Most of my training is in heart rate zones two and three. I do interval training one day a week when I train at home, which helps my body prepare for short periods of skiing while on long expeditions.

a question:

Many athletes struggle with nutrition during their events. Adding height only complicates matters. What are some of the meals you eat or the strategies you've discovered for yourself above 12,000 feet.

Answer:

I keep a very simple diet at altitude. Mashed mashed potatoes, chicken cubes (made into soup), and lots of simple snacks. I'm on my way in the Himalayas basically most of the year, so I try not to prepare a meal or a certain method to "fuel" my body. Different foods are available in different regions, I go with what's available. Treat your body like a truck, not a sports car. He should be able to handle changes and adapt when things don't go exactly as planned. This is how high altitude mountaineering works, you need resilience and adaptability.

a question:

How do you use the VERTIX 2 pulse oximeter in your training or travels?

Answer:

I use the pulse oximeter to test the physiological adaptation my body undergoes at altitude over time. Acclimatization takes time. Every morning I will check my heart rate and blood oxygen level.

a question:

When you train for your adventures, what is one of your main workouts and why?

Answer:

Muscle endurance training one day a week and another day at the gym. Most of my training is outdoors in mountainous terrain, running and ski touring. Muscular endurance training in the gym basically mimics the movements of mountaineering and high-altitude skiing, but with added resistance. This allows the body to perform not only at a fairly high rate, but also for an extended period of time.

a question:

How do you train your brain to deal with the rigors and dangers of your activity? Are there any specific tips or tricks you use in training?

Answer:

I ponder it. I think about the trails. I imagine everything in my mind, and go through every section. I always make sure I set a goal. If the mind is there, everything else works out.

 

Between training for his sport and the tools needed to optimize performance, Luke remains one of the world's leading athletes above 18,000 feet. When planning your next adventure at altitude, make sure you have access and equipment similar to your best performance. . Although height can be a tricky factor for many athletes, we believe that with the right focus, you too can explore perfection!