Does anyone have any experience using one of the various "altitude training masks" for training CO2 tolerance? I don't mean wearing one while actively exercising, which seems to be generally regarded as unnecessary if not outright counterproductive because it increases oxygen usage by the heart and diaphragm.
Most studies seem to agree that there is a positive correlation between aerobic endurance and tolerance of hypercapnia/hypoxia. Studies also seem to support the use of CO2 tables, though it is unclear if they work for the same reasons as aerobic conditioning.
I found a reference to using a training mask to help keep blood CO2 levels elevated while recovering from high intensity sprints, and it seems to based on the same principles as the CO2 tables:
I am also curious about doing sedantary training with a flow-restrictive mask and a fingertip O2 meter to slowly elevate blood CO2 levels while maintaining a steady heartrate. This would seem to accomplish the same effect as CO2 tables.
Most studies seem to agree that there is a positive correlation between aerobic endurance and tolerance of hypercapnia/hypoxia. Studies also seem to support the use of CO2 tables, though it is unclear if they work for the same reasons as aerobic conditioning.
I found a reference to using a training mask to help keep blood CO2 levels elevated while recovering from high intensity sprints, and it seems to based on the same principles as the CO2 tables:
Activity: Hill Runs at 85-95% of max PE (Perceived Exertion) with no mask
Recovery Period: Don the mask and perform 10 breaths at a cadence of 3 seconds of inhalation with 7 seconds of exhalation. Choose a low to moderate mask setting for the first couple of workouts. We advise sticking to 3k until you can perform all ten of your recovery breaths during each set of your workouts in a non-labored manner.
Has anyone tried anything like this, or know of any studies that might be relevant? Recovery Period: Don the mask and perform 10 breaths at a cadence of 3 seconds of inhalation with 7 seconds of exhalation. Choose a low to moderate mask setting for the first couple of workouts. We advise sticking to 3k until you can perform all ten of your recovery breaths during each set of your workouts in a non-labored manner.
I am also curious about doing sedantary training with a flow-restrictive mask and a fingertip O2 meter to slowly elevate blood CO2 levels while maintaining a steady heartrate. This would seem to accomplish the same effect as CO2 tables.