Adding a completely new type of workout to your existing regimen can be equal parts intimidating and exciting. Hypoxic training may sound like an extreme form of exercise for enhanced sports performance, but it actually confronts one of swimming’s most important factors that separates it from other sports. The all important factor is, of course, your breathing.
In this article, we will give a brief introduction into what hypoxic training is and how it can be an enhancement to your aerobic and anaerobic abilities in the water. Then, we’ll find out why you should add hypoxic training to your exercise training. Finally, we will share some simple hypoxic training methods that will boost your aerobic capacity.
What Is Hypoxic Training?
The medical definition of hypoxia is a pathological state caused by an inadequate oxygen supply to the entire organism.
Training hypoxically (also known as altitude training) is when an athlete purposely breathes oxygen-reduced air. This can involve changing the conditions of their training or even where they live and sleep. This method of training may conjure up visions of people preparing themselves for acclimatization in high-altitude hypoxic conditions, such as brave ascents up the Nepalese mountains. But it also…
