Equine Simulated Altitude Training

A Glimpse in to the future:

As equine athletes reach new levels of performance, trainers are constantly seeking innovative methods to maximise their potential. One such method about to transform the training industry is Simulated Altitude Training, which has long been exploited by human athletes performing at the highest levels, and is now proving equally beneficial for horses. If you're keen to understand how this approach works, why it’s effective, and whether it’s right for your equine athlete, this guide will explore the specifics and answer your most pressing questions.

What Is Simulated Altitude Training?

Simulated altitude training mimics the reduced oxygen levels found at high altitudes by altering the oxygen percentage in the air within a controlled environment. For horses, this has traditionally meant lengthy periods at rest in an ‘Altitude Stable’, but now a much more effective altitude training technique has been shown to be short bursts of active training on a treadmill. 

By exposing horses to low oxygen levels, they experience similar physiological changes to humans.  In humans, long term exposure at rest stimulates the production of red blood cells and so increases the ability of the blood to transport oxygen, a key factor in energy production. In addition, the exposure to low oxygen levels stimulates the production of the cells in which energy production predominantly occurs, the mitochondria. In combination these events are most beneficial in endurance events in which the fuel for the muscles derives to a great extent from the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats which occurs in the mitochondrial cells in combination with oxygen from the air.  

Why is Active Altitude Training effective?

Active Altitude Training (AAT) on a treadmill brings about markedly different adaptations to those triggered by passive exposure.

Whilst additional RBCs are produced, with AAT the prominent adaptations occur at a muscular level, by bringing about strengthening changes to active muscle groups including the running muscles, diaphragm and heart.   At the muscular level, new blood capillaries form within the muscle to distribute RBCs more efficiently, whilst at the same time Mitochondrial activity increases, improving energy creation within the muscle.  These powerful – and permanent – changes – have been shown in multiple studies to increase endurance, strength, and overall athletic performance that translate directly into improved performance on the track.   

Exactly as happens in humans.

Is Altitude Training Right for Your Horse?

AAT has the potential to assist any horse approach its full potential by applying a level of training stimulus which is simply impossible to achieve by any other means.   The stimulation and the adaptations that occur are natural and, done properly, the resulting changes for both performance and welfare, particularly to the heart, are beneficial.   Whether your horse is engaged in racing, eventing, polo or endurance riding, this training method will enhance their physical capabilities and help unlock their full performance potential.

But like many things in life, the key phrase is “done properly”.

It is essential to work closely with experienced professionals to determine the right training protocol for your horse. As with any training regimen, individual needs vary, and a customised approach is essential to allow performance benefits to be achieved without risking excessive stress or fatigue.  Welfare has to sit prominently alongside performance when using this – or any other – training regime. 

With Equine Edge, individual training regimes are designed - and actually delivered – by Dr Allan Davie; probably the leading expert on using AAT to improve safely the achievements of performance horses.  This expert knowledge will safeguard your equestrian athlete whilst improving performance over a programme typically covering a month or so, giving you the opportunity to gain expertise yourself in the safe, effective use of this powerful training technique. 

    www.equine-edge.co.uk           Tel: 01256 844484          info@equine-edge.co.uk