Effects of Breath-Hold vs Standard Interval Training on Fitness in Mountaineers

This study investigated whether adding structured breath-holds to standard interval training improves cardiorespiratory fitness in recreational mountaineers more than interval training alone. Twenty-four male recreational mountaineers participated in an 8-week progressive treadmill interval training program. Participants were divided into two groups: a controlled-breathing group that performed structured mid-tidal breath-holds during training, and a free-breathing group that maintained unrestricted breathing. The primary outcomes measured were resting heart rate and estimated maximal oxygen uptake, along with secondary measures including blood pressure and pulmonary function indices. The study aimed to determine if this mild voluntary hypoventilation technique provides additional physiological benefits for altitude preparation.

Inclusion Criteria: * Male recreational mountaineers aged 25 to 35 years. * A minimum of 6 months of mountaineering experience with at least 3 sessions per month. * Willingness to attend at least 85% of the scheduled training sessions. * Negative responses to all items on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q). Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed cardiovascular, respiratory, or musculoskeletal disorders. * Current smoking. * Use of medications affecting heart rate or blood pressure. * Prior experience with structured hypoxic or breath-hold training.