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Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread
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I've seen a wide range of commentary on the effects of altitude on athletes at IMLT. This is a thread for experts to draw up a concrete protocol - not for anecdotes and conjecture. Please add other key questions that are not included.

What is the optimal strategy for arrival at altitude before the event?
Will an altitude tent help at this event? If so, how much?
Will frequent hypoxic training at altitude or with an altitude training mask help? If so, how much?
What effect will the thinner air/lower air resistance have on bike speeds?
Are there any other precautions one can take to limit the effects of altitude immediately before the race (supplements, sleep, nutrition, ect.)?

Nick
Last edited by: iheartfestina: Jun 19, 12 16:10
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [3Aims] [ In reply to ]
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I used something like that in the past, until it did not work anymore. I am open to trying most anything.

.

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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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How about just carrying oxygen?

No idea if its WTC/USAT legal.

I just plan to HTFU.


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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [ktj] [ In reply to ]
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Just go find the tallest building in your city, sneak up to the roof, and ride your bike on a trainer.

______________________________________________
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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Not Tahoe. I plan to do 70.3 Boulder and Calgary. My strategy is to climb on my bike up to a ski resort in the Cascades, or Hurricane Ridge in Olympics, with my GF driving the support car ;) and then trail run up there. An altitude brick if you will.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [ktj] [ In reply to ]
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I can see it now at the aid stations. Water. Perform. Gel. Oranges. Ice. Oxygen
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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Depending on how much time you can spend in the area before you get there, here's what I would consider:

1. Don't do anything too rigorous for the first 24-48 hours you're out there.
2. After that, spend a day or two at a higher altitude doing some moderate activity - maybe go for a hike, or some easy workouts (you're tapering anyway, right?). "Climb high, sleep low". The rule of thumb is not more than 1,000 meters of gain per day.
3. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

Really, I think this is kind of a strategy to lessen the effects - having 4 days or so in advance to get used to it will help, but never get you fully acclimated. The thing is that you're not at really high altitude where altitude sickness, AMS, etc. are a problem - you're just going to be dealing with reduced performance until your body adapts. You most likely won't have enough time for it to adapt, so it is going to be good to know your heart rate range, and race according to that. You might be tempted to try altitude drugs like Diamox, but I believe they can actually hurt your aerobic performance.

I've never heard of hypoxic training really working (at least for mountain climbing). It might get you used to the feeling of not getting air, but it doesn't simulate the other effects of being at altitude.

So, the resulting advice is just to spend more time at altitude if you can. There's no substitute for time.

Travis Rassat
Vector Cycle Works
Noblesville, IN
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [3Aims] [ In reply to ]
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3Aims wrote:
I can see it now at the aid stations. Water. Perform. Gel. Oranges. Ice. Oxygen
I honestly wouldn't be surprised if they had paramedics standing by with oxygen.


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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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Come stay at my house which is at 6,700 feet. Just kidding. First of all, the elevation at LT is nothing to be overly concerned about. The chance for altitude sickness, generally starts at 8,500 feet and higher.

There are pluses and minuses of arriving early versus coming the day before. Since it's Ironman, I assume you will be arriving a few days before. 1) Stay hydrated and do a few easy workouts would be best. 2) Start easy on the swim. I notice breathing on the swim is more difficult of any of the three disciplines. Other than that, you may be a hair slower. 3) Hope for a low pressure and cold temps and not a high pressure system, which will decrease the O2 level compared to LT's normal barometric pressure.

Lot's of resources on the web but again its not that high. If you didn't know you were racing an Ironman at 6,200 feet you probably wouldn't even know it.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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I really would have hoped that a "Definitive" thread would have at least spelled the topic correctly.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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So far, a pretty idiotic thread with regard to responses! Only cogent responses here, please. Here's my strategy:

1) Stay below 5000' for majority of the trip until about 24 hours prior (friends in Sacramento and SFO). Might even check-in, drop equipment, and then head back down. Check in to hotel the afternoon prior near the start. Goal is to stay low until less than 24 hours prior.

2) Acclimation strategies require 2 full weeks or more at altitude! Can't do that. It's either <24 hours or >2+ weeks.

3) The swim is a problem for the first few minutes as evidenced by several friends who got real panicky in years past (XTerra and open water folks). The problem? Constrictive wetsuit, very cold water (website is lying about the temps, which will be probably mid-50s?), high altitude/lower oxygen, combative mass start, and elevated heart rate in general from the pressure altitude all will conspire to take one's breath away at the start. Get in and acclimate a little and fill up your wetsuit to get it warming up. The swim will likely take several people out in the first few minutes.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Gurudriver10] [ In reply to ]
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Gurudriver10 wrote:
So far, a pretty idiotic thread with regard to responses! Only cogent responses here, please. Here's my strategy:

1) Stay below 5000' for majority of the trip until about 24 hours prior (friends in Sacramento and SFO). Might even check-in, drop equipment, and then head back down. Check in to hotel the afternoon prior near the start. Goal is to stay low until less than 24 hours prior.

2) Acclimation strategies require 2 full weeks or more at altitude! Can't do that. It's either <24 hours or >2+ weeks.

3) The swim is a problem for the first few minutes as evidenced by several friends who got real panicky in years past (XTerra and open water folks). The problem? Constrictive wetsuit, very cold water (website is lying about the temps, which will be probably mid-50s?), high altitude/lower oxygen, combative mass start, and elevated heart rate in general from the pressure altitude all will conspire to take one's breath away at the start. Get in and acclimate a little and fill up your wetsuit to get it warming up. The swim will likely take several people out in the first few minutes.

That will be the big decision for me. I can drive 2 hours, register and come home. Then drive back up Sat, rack the bike, and stay someplace. But, this means minimum social interacting with folks.
All your logic makes sense from my experience. I also go to Donner the morning of the race, and had very few issues.

.

Dave Campbell | Facebook | @DaveECampbell | h2ofun@h2ofun.net

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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Gurudriver10] [ In reply to ]
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Per http://tahoe.usgs.gov/facts.html, the water temp in September 65 to 70 degrees. I don't think the USGS modified their webiste to conspire with WTC on this.

I never saw a wild thing sorry for itself. - D. H. Lawrence
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Moose1406] [ In reply to ]
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Moose1406 wrote:

Per http://tahoe.usgs.gov/facts.html, the water temp in September 65 to 70 degrees. I don't think the USGS modified their webiste to conspire with WTC on this.

No way do I believe the water temp will be anything other than the upper 50's which is perfect wetsuit swimming. 70 would be terrible for a long wetsuit swim.

..

Dave Campbell | Facebook | @DaveECampbell | h2ofun@h2ofun.net

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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [h2ofun] [ In reply to ]
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Oh, you're so lucky! I live in Virginia and will have to fly in to Reno, Sacto, or SFO, drive up and do the paper work, then come back the day prior from some place. Or, just book in Incline Village or the race site and just hang out, throwing caution to the wind! It's my 4th IM so I don't really need the pre-race meeting or the dinner. Hope to see you there. Stay healthy!
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Moose1406] [ In reply to ]
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Moose1406 wrote:

Per http://tahoe.usgs.gov/facts.html, the water temp in September 65 to 70 degrees. I don't think the USGS modified their webiste to conspire with WTC on this.

Man, I had no idea! That's great news. Might even bring the sleeveless.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [h2ofun] [ In reply to ]
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h2ofun wrote:
Moose1406 wrote:

Per http://tahoe.usgs.gov/facts.html, the water temp in September 65 to 70 degrees. I don't think the USGS modified their webiste to conspire with WTC on this.


No way do I believe the water temp will be anything other than the upper 50's which is perfect wetsuit swimming. 70 would be terrible for a long wetsuit swim.

..

My mistake. Not sure why I would believe an objective third party refernece form the US Geological Survey in this matter. First, the WTC conspires with the USADA to ban Lance, now, they consipire with the USGS to misrepresent Lake Tahoe's water temperature. It's getting so that you can't believe anything said by an organization that uses initialism.

I never saw a wild thing sorry for itself. - D. H. Lawrence
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Gurudriver10] [ In reply to ]
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I live just east of Sacramento at about 350 feet above sea level and visit Lake Tahoe a lot. First, I've never seen the water in Lake Tahoe above about 65 degrees, at least once you get past the immediate shore. For those really worried about the altitude, staying down the hill isn't a bad idea. I make day trips from home to LT all the time for biking, skiing, etc. and am never bothered by the altitude. Having said that, even when I stay in Tahoe for several days, it doesn't bother me, however, when I've been to Colorado (9,000+ feet), I have experienced some symptoms of altitude sickness. I tend to think most folks will not get full on altitude sickness but will notice that the air is thinner.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Gurudriver10] [ In reply to ]
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September is normally cool but comfy water, I'd guess best chances are for low to mid 60s. Once it hits July the lake is normally fine for swimming with just a wetsuit, no cap or booties needed, and it stays that way until it really starts to get cold around mid-October. It's pretty deep so temps don't swing quickly, but the north shore around KB is pretty shallow with a sandy/granite bottom so it's normally warmer than other parts of the lake.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [micheleg] [ In reply to ]
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micheleg wrote:
I live just east of Sacramento at about 350 feet above sea level and visit Lake Tahoe a lot. First, I've never seen the water in Lake Tahoe above about 65 degrees, at least once you get past the immediate shore. For those really worried about the altitude, staying down the hill isn't a bad idea. I make day trips from home to LT all the time for biking, skiing, etc. and am never bothered by the altitude. Having said that, even when I stay in Tahoe for several days, it doesn't bother me, however, when I've been to Colorado (9,000+ feet), I have experienced some symptoms of altitude sickness. I tend to think most folks will not get full on altitude sickness but will notice that the air is thinner.

I was based at Mather AFB back in '91-'93. Closed down the base there. Great town with so much to do in and around the area. See you at the race!
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Gurudriver10] [ In reply to ]
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Gurudriver10 wrote:
Oh, you're so lucky! I live in Virginia and will have to fly in to Reno, Sacto, or SFO, drive up and do the paper work, then come back the day prior from some place. Or, just book in Incline Village or the race site and just hang out, throwing caution to the wind! It's my 4th IM so I don't really need the pre-race meeting or the dinner. Hope to see you there. Stay healthy!

It would be nice to have some type of ST get together. Seems like Sat would be the best since most everyone would need to be there. I could drive in the morning of but that is probably too much.
I got up at 2:30 in the morning to drive to Napa this year, so I have done it. I do not sleep well the night before a race anyways.

.

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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [micheleg] [ In reply to ]
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micheleg wrote:
I live just east of Sacramento at about 350 feet above sea level and visit Lake Tahoe a lot. First, I've never seen the water in Lake Tahoe above about 65 degrees, at least once you get past the immediate shore. For those really worried about the altitude, staying down the hill isn't a bad idea. I make day trips from home to LT all the time for biking, skiing, etc. and am never bothered by the altitude. Having said that, even when I stay in Tahoe for several days, it doesn't bother me, however, when I've been to Colorado (9,000+ feet), I have experienced some symptoms of altitude sickness. I tend to think most folks will not get full on altitude sickness but will notice that the air is thinner.

Yep, that is what I would expect. Would love to see it 70, but I have never heard anyone say they have seen Tahoe that warm. Now the lake I live on is 87 now, and I have seen it get to 92, so some stuff can get real warm.

I have also never remember being bothered, but I also have never tried a full IM at this altitude. Guess I have lots of time to see if I want to do the get there at the last minute, a few days ahead, or maybe a week ahead.
That is assuming I am healthy to even worry about it.

.

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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [h2ofun] [ In reply to ]
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h2ofun wrote:
Gurudriver10 wrote:
Oh, you're so lucky! I live in Virginia and will have to fly in to Reno, Sacto, or SFO, drive up and do the paper work, then come back the day prior from some place. Or, just book in Incline Village or the race site and just hang out, throwing caution to the wind! It's my 4th IM so I don't really need the pre-race meeting or the dinner. Hope to see you there. Stay healthy!


It would be nice to have some type of ST get together. Seems like Sat would be the best since most everyone would need to be there. I could drive in the morning of but that is probably too much.
I got up at 2:30 in the morning to drive to Napa this year, so I have done it. I do not sleep well the night before a race anyways.

.

I'm up for that! Let's tentatively plan drinks and a meal or something like that on Saturday? We have 4 of us from my town attending. I tend to sleep like a rock Friday, aiming for 9+ hours of sleep. Can't sleep on Saturday but still read in bed early evening. Wake at 4 am on Sunday and start munching. My favorite is a sizeable smoothie with fruit and some wheat crackers which I always eat on a normal day. I do drink a Kahlua and Cream the night before Ironman. It's worked in the past and is now tradition!
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Gurudriver10] [ In reply to ]
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From the FAQs to the Pikes Peak Marathon website[/url]

[/url]
What can I do about the altitude?[/url]
Short of moving — next to NOTHING! There are a few altitude simulation chambers out there but I have not heard of any with public access. Some people plan vacations or weekend trips to Pikes Peak so they can do some high altitude training on the course.
In general the formula for VO2 loss goes like this: For every 1000 feet above 5000 feet you will lose 3% of your VO2. So on top of the Peak there is a 27% reduction in your body’s ability to deliver oxygen to the muscles.
However, this is AFTER training at altitude so most people are going to suffer even more. In general, you can follow the 2 day, 2 week, 2 month plan or the 3 A’s.
  1. Lots of neat little things happen in the first 2 days: Increased pulse, breathing etc. This is the Adjust phase.
  2. Lots of cool bigger things happen over the next two weeks. Red blood cell count, hematocrit etc. This is the Acclimation phase.
  3. Over the next 2 months most of what is going to happen will happen and level out including those things mentioned above as well as neurological responses and hormone levels. This is the Adaptation phase.
Some Altitude Related Links
Altitude training 1 (1996 very complete)
Altitude training 2 (2000 very complete)
The key words in both paragraphs are “in general” because some people die (as in dead) at only 8,000 feet. Others have run close to 3 hour marathons with the entire 26.2 mile flat course being at 17,060 feet. Some adapt faster, some seem to never get used to the effects of altitude. But as you can see a weekend (as opposed to consistent training) in altitude is not going to do that much as far as acclimation goes and when you go back to wherever you will lose the benefits just as fast! Bottom line, a lot of people that do the race do not get to train in altitude — nothing can be done about it so do not let it worry you.
However what the weekend on Pikes Peak will do is prepare you for what is ahead so that the experience will not be new. Knowing the course is invaluable! Knowing what hypoxia (lack of oxygen to the brain) feels like will make it much easier the second time! Taken together a weekend on Pikes Peak could shave a VERY significant amount of time off of your race! This IS worth all the trouble and expense and if you can do it, I would recommend it!

Such a Bad Runner
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Gurudriver10] [ In reply to ]
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I'm not doing IMLT, but I am doing the Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Run 50 Miler in less than two weeks. I train in Virginia, where the air is hot and miserable and the trails are steep and rocky.

I've heard many versions of the "<24hrs or >2+ weeks" theory. My question is whether there's good science to back this up or whether it's just repeated wisdom. The Pike's Peak marathon altitude advice (elsewhere in this thread) says that a weekend at altitude can make a difference.

I arrive in Carson City late Thursday. My only decision is whether to spend Friday sitting around as high as I possibly can (probably some 10,000 ski resort) and hope that breathing thin air for 8 hours makes it less of a shock on Saturday, or to spend Friday in Carson City and breathe 8,500' air for the first time at mile 10 of the ultra.

Advice? How should I spend my Friday? I'll report back so all you IMLT'ers can learn from my folly :-)
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [JackM] [ In reply to ]
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JackM wrote:
I'm not doing IMLT, but I am doing the Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Run 50 Miler in less than two weeks. I train in Virginia, where the air is hot and miserable and the trails are steep and rocky.

I've heard many versions of the "<24hrs or >2+ weeks" theory. My question is whether there's good science to back this up or whether it's just repeated wisdom. The Pike's Peak marathon altitude advice (elsewhere in this thread) says that a weekend at altitude can make a difference.

I arrive in Carson City late Thursday. My only decision is whether to spend Friday sitting around as high as I possibly can (probably some 10,000 ski resort) and hope that breathing thin air for 8 hours makes it less of a shock on Saturday, or to spend Friday in Carson City and breathe 8,500' air for the first time at mile 10 of the ultra.

Advice? How should I spend my Friday? I'll report back so all you IMLT'ers can learn from my folly :-)

Too back you are not out a week earlier. You could join me next Sunday at the Donner tri and get some good high altitude training/racing in.

I still hear lots of different opinions. I think it comes down to each person is different so one size might not fit all. Since I have always gotten to Donner the morning of the race, I have not data how I would feel if I got there a few days before. Lots of research needed during the next 14 months

.

Dave Campbell | Facebook | @DaveECampbell | h2ofun@h2ofun.net

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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [Dilbert] [ In reply to ]
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Dilbert..... and any other. WA str's... Go to Sunrise at Mt Rainer take your trainer and ride while looking at the mt then trail run after. 6500 fft. Ass kicker. Funny looks from the buses filled with Japanese tourists but great training. If you prefer to actually ride start at Ohanapecosh cg and ride to Sunrise, up / downd Cayuse pass then up to Sunrise. 5700 ft of climbing in 31 miles!!!!!!!
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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When I did the Tour de Tahoe last year, I drove up from sea level the night before the event. I didn't notice any problems with the altitude during the ride.

Some of the things I've been reading suggest you have two choices to minimize the effects of altitude: (1) drive up from sea level the night before the race or (2) spend three weeks acclimating. In other words, you suffer the most between the 24 hours after you arrive at altitude from sea level and before you have attained acclimitization.

I'm planning to drive up the morning of the race because I think that will work best for me.

So my question is where is the nearest sea-level location to King's beach?

Is it Auburn, CA? I see it's a 1.5-hour drive from Auburn to the race start. I'm looking to minimize the driving time on race morning.
Last edited by: K_Man: Sep 10, 12 13:12
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [K_Man] [ In reply to ]
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K_Man wrote:
When I did the Tour de Tahoe last year, I drove up from sea level the night before the event. I didn't notice any problems with the altitude during the ride.

Some of the things I've been reading suggest you have two choices to minimize the effects of altitude: (1) drive up from sea level the night before the race or (2) spend three weeks acclimating. In other words, you suffer the most between the 24 hours after you arrive at altitude from sea level and before you have attained acclimitization.

I'm planning to drive up the morning of the race because I think that will work best for me.

So my question is where is the nearest sea-level location to King's beach?

Is it Auburn, CA? I see it's a 1.5-hour drive from Auburn to the race start. I'm looking to minimize the driving time on race morning.


Auburn is around 1200 feet. You would need to go another hour into Sacramento to get about sea level. Now maybe Rocklin or Roseville which is a little closer.

I live in Auburn but just do not see getting the race, race morning is going to work. Have not figured out what to do yet.

.

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Last edited by: h2ofun: Sep 10, 12 13:20
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [h2ofun] [ In reply to ]
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Since this thread popped back up, here's a Q for the altitude people that I've been wondering about for a few weeks now.

So, the general consensus is that you need about 2 weeks to acclimate to attitude, does that figure change in anyway based on partial exposure? By that I mean, would it still take roughly 2 weeks to acclimate if you were only exposed to altitude ~7 hours a day, i.e. sleeping in an altitude tent?

While financially I could probably afford to buy an altitude tent system (as used one at least), I don't think I could reconcile the absurdity of an amateur athlete with probably a pretty small shot at KQ going to such extremes. However, I did notice that the manufacturers do rent said systems, and perhaps I could reconcile that I'm eccentric enough to at least rent one for 2 weeks before the race.

So, the million dollar question is, would this make a sufficient difference?
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [tgarson] [ In reply to ]
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my understanding is that the best strategy is to train at sea level and sleep at altitude. This is because if you train at altitude with no acclimation, you can't put out the same power and you likely lose some fitness. If you sleep at altitude, your plasma still responds and you can adapt with no training loss.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [TheBeek] [ In reply to ]
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Correct, and I am of the same understanding (live high, train low), hence the desirability of an altitude sleeping system. Still, even so it just seems over the top to me. I'm a single guy and I'm picturing bringing someone home and explaining to them why I sleep in a tent in my own home, or frankly just having to question whether I have truly exhausted my other less expensive / free options (simply training harder) to increase performance before going to such extremes.

However, my question is somewhat different. Even though they are basically synonymous, I'm not really seeking to increase my performance at sea level, I’m seeking to reduce my loss of performance when racing at altitude, specifically for IMLT—and renting an altitude tent is one possible option if I could convince myself the benefit was worth the cost.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [tgarson] [ In reply to ]
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yeah ok. but the answer is still yes. If you sleep in it, you will acclimate.
tell the chicks it enhances orgasm.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Gurudriver10] [ In reply to ]
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"the old idea of arriving immediately before a race has been shown to not work." - Joe Friel

http://www.joefrielsblog.com/...answer-it-hurts.html
Last edited by: krez: Sep 10, 12 16:18
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [krez] [ In reply to ]
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Oh well...Thanks!
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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I found an interesting article entitled "Altitude Training Recommendations in Preparation For Competition at Altitude" from USA Track & Field (USATF) that describes currently accepted "best practices" for acclimatization. The article was prepared for athletes that were to be competing in the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico (5150ft).

For athletes named to the Pan-Am Games team in distance events of 1500m and longer, USATF funded an altitude training camp at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs (6100 ft) beginning 14 days prior to their first date of competition. Athletes were then flown directly from Colorado Springs to Guadalajara 3 or 4 days before their first event.

Takeaways:

* Athletes should live at or slightly higher than the specific altitude that they will be competing at.

* Performance is worst on day 1 and progressively improves each week to day 14.

* Athletes may undergo simple testing at any of three laboratories to determine their individual response to exercise at altitude.
Last edited by: K_Man: Sep 11, 12 17:06
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [K_Man] [ In reply to ]
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In view of this new information, instead of driving up the morning of the race, I think I'd better find a nearby place at a higher elevation (maybe a ski cabin?) to hang out at for 14 days prior to the race.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [h2ofun] [ In reply to ]
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JackM wrote:


I still hear lots of different opinions. I think it comes down to each person is different so one size might not fit all. Since I have always gotten to Donner the morning of the race, I have not data how I would feel if I got there a few days before. Lots of research needed during the next 14 months

.


YES!!! Each person is different. I, sadly, am not one to quickly adapt, as I know from travel in Peru and other adventures in elevation. Hats off to those who said that 6500' is nothing. I wish I could say that.

I signed up for IMLT anyway. FOMO. GD FOMO. Idiot.

Here's what I'm doing (coming from sea-level Oakland, CA):
I'm experimenting now with Diamox prophylactically to help speed up acclimatization. Good reason to go snowboarding! I've already learned that I can't take it the night that I arrive because I can't replenish fluids fast enough. Dehydration b/c of altitude +Dehydration due to Diamox + sleep = bad news. Taking it during the day, day before I leave. We'll see. Would be happy to update this thread as I learn more.

Also working on fixing my low ferritin levels - thinking low iron... low RBC is bad for O2. (I'm no doctor, but it sounds good, right?)

Pre-IM races will include Donner half-IM and the Shasta Century to test. Will also be spending a few weekends training in Tahoe and Yosemite.

Interested in hearing your thoughts.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [kbird] [ In reply to ]
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Interesting post by Joe Friel on altitude...

http://www.joefrielsblog.com/...answer-it-hurts.html
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [ppd2003] [ In reply to ]
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Yep. Read that one. Good infos (as usual from Joe Friel), especially the description of what it does to your VO2 max. OUCH!

The only part that I'm going to need to test out for myself is this bit (below). I think that, even if I don't see a big physical benefit to training at altitude, I will appreciate it mentally - kind of understanding what I'm getting into, rather than just being shocked on the day of the race.
Q. Can you suggest a workout someone could do to improve their altitude preparation?
A. Training at altitude is probably not going to be of any value in adapting. It takes something on the order of around 12-16 hours a day of exposure to a sufficiently high altitude to beneficially adapt. More is better. A few hours working out at altitude would be of little or no value and might even be detrimental to performance as one would not be able to train at as great an intensity (power or pace) as at low altitude, so muscular fitness would decline.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [kbird] [ In reply to ]
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I would be really, really careful taking Diamox to aid in your race performance. It's hard enough to properly manage one's hydration and electrolytes during a normal IM; add in the extreme dryness of Tahoe and the diuretic effect of Diamox, and I think you'll do yourself more harm than good. But, you say you're going to test it out; I'll just suggest you test it out on a long ride with some hills.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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iheartfestina wrote:
What is the optimal strategy for arrival at altitude before the event? Nick

Bumping this thread because you lowlanders might not be aware of the orientation camp 6 weeks before when you can try your strategy on the course. http://tahoepeakendurance.com/Camps.shtml
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitue Strategy Thread [Dilbert] [ In reply to ]
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Dilbert wrote:
Not Tahoe. I plan to do 70.3 Boulder and Calgary. My strategy is to climb on my bike up to a ski resort in the Cascades, or Hurricane Ridge in Olympics, with my GF driving the support car ;) and then trail run up there. An altitude brick if you will.

PM me... I'll buy you coffee when you come.

___________________________________________
http://en.wikipedia.org/...eoesophageal_fistula
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2020 National Masters Champion - M40-44 - 400m IM
Canadian Record Holder 35-39M & 40-44M - 200 m Butterfly (LCM)
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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pretty much the norm in the ultra-running community.

http://www.irunfar.com/...ning-and-racing.html


Dave Stark
dreamcatcher@astound.net
USAC & USAT level 2 certified coach
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [karma] [ In reply to ]
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i do not agree with the accepted view, the "proven" view, the experts' view. i went to high school at lake tahoe, lived in tahoe and reno through most of HS and most of college, about 10 years altogether, and live and train at altitude now.

the issue is not physiology. if you make your decisions based on the spurious and scant quasi-known physiological elements of this topic, you'll overlook the more important elements specific to comfort, pacing, sensory adaptation. i think you need about 4 days of being at altitude to acclimate, and i'm not talking about blood physiology, i'm talking about losing the sense of asphyxiation every time you go running. i think that's more important.

second, you need to go to altitude and swim. you need to go to altitude and run. if you're entered in that race, just go to altitude 2 or 3 times, for a weekend, and swim and run. there is no come to jesus in triathlon like trying to swim at 6000 or 7000 feet. cycling at altitude is not a problem. in fact, it's easier. swimming is the big problem, running is the second problem.

i live at 4000', and i regularly drive to 6000' or 7000' to run. that 3000' difference is probably the equivalent of going from sea level to 5000'. when i run at 7000' i don't feel anything. it's second nature. because i'm used to how it feels. it's the same lack of air. but i know how that feels. i know what pace to run. to start out a run. i know what it feels like. i'm adapted in a sensory way. that in my view is more important than trying to hit it right via some formula. going from lower altitude to higher altitude and hitting that right is like trying to hit a taper. good luck following science's advice on that one. your best bet, in my view, is to sensory adapt, and that means taking as many trips to altitude to train as possible, and then get to the race 4 days in advance.

when you do go there to train, do not train hard. just moderate. just get the feel of it.

Dan Empfield
aka Slowman
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Slowman] [ In reply to ]
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Who knew my wild ass guessed plan of being at altitude starting the Sunday prior to the race and trying to do multiple short easy swims and runs prior to IM Lake Tahoe was the Slowman approved method for lowland age groupers... (add in the weekend trip to do Boulder 70.3 also...) Now I guess I need to find one or two more weekends to hit some altitude training if I can swing it, and I will be fully implementing his plan.

Thanks for the words of experience. While I believe the science, I always felt that the first hand knowledge was a better teacher for many subjects.

Ryan
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Slowman] [ In reply to ]
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Living in Raleigh, NC, I am going to follow Slowman's advise as well. The tallest mountain near me around 6000' and are about a 4 hour drive away. I will just have to carve out a few weekends to get to them and train.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [ryans] [ In reply to ]
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+1. Booked all my travel, flying up the Sat on the prior weekend and staying in Squaw. A full week has to help with altitude plus gets in plenty of swims and several rides of course.

2016:
IMFL #12
http://www.bestbikesplit.com
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [DFWTri] [ In reply to ]
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In addition to following Slowman's advice, "when you do go there (altitude) to train, do not train hard. just moderate. just get the feel of it"


.... LEARN THE IMLT COURSE:
Orientation camp 6 weeks before IMLT: http://tahoepeakendurance.com/Camps.shtml
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Slowman] [ In reply to ]
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Slowman wrote:
i do not agree with the accepted view, the "proven" view, the experts' view. i went to high school at lake tahoe, lived in tahoe and reno through most of HS and most of college, about 10 years altogether, and live and train at altitude now.

the issue is not physiology. if you make your decisions based on the spurious and scant quasi-known physiological elements of this topic, you'll overlook the more important elements specific to comfort, pacing, sensory adaptation. i think you need about 4 days of being at altitude to acclimate, and i'm not talking about blood physiology, i'm talking about losing the sense of asphyxiation every time you go running. i think that's more important.

second, you need to go to altitude and swim. you need to go to altitude and run. if you're entered in that race, just go to altitude 2 or 3 times, for a weekend, and swim and run. there is no come to jesus in triathlon like trying to swim at 6000 or 7000 feet. cycling at altitude is not a problem. in fact, it's easier. swimming is the big problem, running is the second problem.

i live at 4000', and i regularly drive to 6000' or 7000' to run. that 3000' difference is probably the equivalent of going from sea level to 5000'. when i run at 7000' i don't feel anything. it's second nature. because i'm used to how it feels. it's the same lack of air. but i know how that feels. i know what pace to run. to start out a run. i know what it feels like. i'm adapted in a sensory way. that in my view is more important than trying to hit it right via some formula. going from lower altitude to higher altitude and hitting that right is like trying to hit a taper. good luck following science's advice on that one. your best bet, in my view, is to sensory adapt, and that means taking as many trips to altitude to train as possible, and then get to the race 4 days in advance.

when you do go there to train, do not train hard. just moderate. just get the feel of it.

So damn true. I remember in high school going from sea level out to Colorado Springs for a water polo development camp. Got to the OTC at night, the next morning immediately after breakfast was swimming 400m IMs in the dungeon pool at the AFA and thinking I had never experienced pain like that before. Absolutely brutal.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [Gurudriver10] [ In reply to ]
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Gurudriver10 wrote:
So far, a pretty idiotic thread with regard to responses! Only cogent responses here, please. Here's my strategy:

1) Stay below 5000' for majority of the trip until about 24 hours prior (friends in Sacramento and SFO). Might even check-in, drop equipment, and then head back down. Check in to hotel the afternoon prior near the start. Goal is to stay low until less than 24 hours prior.

2) Acclimation strategies require 2 full weeks or more at altitude! Can't do that. It's either <24 hours or >2+ weeks.

3) The swim is a problem for the first few minutes as evidenced by several friends who got real panicky in years past (XTerra and open water folks). The problem? Constrictive wetsuit, very cold water (website is lying about the temps, which will be probably mid-50s?), high altitude/lower oxygen, combative mass start, and elevated heart rate in general from the pressure altitude all will conspire to take one's breath away at the start. Get in and acclimate a little and fill up your wetsuit to get it warming up. The swim will likely take several people out in the first few minutes.

Not sure where you are from but I've spent many years in Tahoe and the website is not lying- the water, especially in King's Beach should be in the mid 60's if not low 70's if we have a hot Summer. Water temp will not be the issue at all- air temp will probably be in the 30's at start though. The elevation and metered breathing will be a BIG issue for many......

D

Team Every Man Jack

http://www.teamemj.com
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [dmounts] [ In reply to ]
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Awesome! Thanks for the info.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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Altitude tent, breathing control while swimming, training camps at high altitude, making sure your iron levels are ok. Getting as much sleep as you can. If your really serious about IMLT then doing a 2-3 week training camp at altitude is best. If not, doing some work at VO2 max efforts at sea level and breathing control while swimming.

http://www.MattRussellTri.com -Pro Triathlete -Tri Coach
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [MattRussellTri] [ In reply to ]
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I had another one which is not prep related but execution related. It's related to "getting more oxygen". Yes, do breathing control at sea level, but when you get to 6400 feet, you will need more oxygen. I have been working on the technique where you breath every stroke.....by that I mean you breath on the right for every left hand entry and on the left for every right hand entry. I have gotten to the point that this feels comfortable, and although my 50 and 100m times are not better, my 200-400m times are better thanks to a lot more oxygen. I think this breathing pattern would be very helpful for a lot of Tahoe athletes. If you have not raced a try at Tahoe, the swim will be one of the biggest challenges. I raced the old World's Toughest Tri in Tahoe in 1993. It was 2 mile swim, 100 mile bike, 20 mile run. One of the guys posted a results sheet on another thread....looks like I was 11th overall after the swim and bike and then the altitude did me in!!! Funny thing is I did not know Cid Cardusa back then but he faded just as badly on the run....both of us were sea level guys suffering it out.



I really should be back racing Tahoe this year as this year is 20 years since the 1993 event!
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [devashish_paul] [ In reply to ]
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Dev, IMLT will be a piece of cake compared to the original World's Toughest.

The water will be much warmer, a bunch less elevation gain on the bike (no need to climb to the top of Monitor) and a relatively flat run - don't even have to go bouldering around Fallen Leaf Lake.

:)

Team Kiwami
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [owtbac86] [ In reply to ]
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owtbac86 wrote:
Dev, IMLT will be a piece of cake compared to the original World's Toughest.

The water will be much warmer, a bunch less elevation gain on the bike (no need to climb to the top of Monitor) and a relatively flat run - don't even have to go bouldering around Fallen Leaf Lake.

:)

What is my excuse for not doing Tahoe?...I'm only doing Tremblant IM and then Vegas 3 weeks apart...I see you on on deck for IMCda+Whistler+Tahoe+Kona in the span of around 3 months! Don't remind me about that run around Fallen Leaf lake....that was more like a long hike with low blood sugar and no oxygen trying not to fall off a cliff and plummeting 300 feet into a lake....no way they would use that run loop or the Monitor descent in an Mdot race. Man, on the Monitor descent, I thought I was doing to die going over a cattle grate at 50 mph!!!
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [TheBeek] [ In reply to ]
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nope...climb high sleep low

Randy Christofferson(http://www.rcmioga.blogspot.com

Insert Doubt. Erase Hope. Crush Dreams.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [kbird] [ In reply to ]
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I'm not sure about triathlon...although I am doing IMLT but I know when I do high altitude mountain climbing we cycle up 1500-3000 ft a day and drop some gear and then go back down to sleep and then move up the next day. So basically we can adapt to 1000 meters every 2 days.

Not sure what it means from a SBR perspective but in my experience we can definitely adjust from 7000 to 20000 feet in 5-6 days...

Randy Christofferson(http://www.rcmioga.blogspot.com

Insert Doubt. Erase Hope. Crush Dreams.
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [devashish_paul] [ In reply to ]
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devashish_paul wrote:
owtbac86 wrote:
Dev, IMLT will be a piece of cake compared to the original World's Toughest.

The water will be much warmer, a bunch less elevation gain on the bike (no need to climb to the top of Monitor) and a relatively flat run - don't even have to go bouldering around Fallen Leaf Lake.

:)


What is my excuse for not doing Tahoe?...I'm only doing Tremblant IM and then Vegas 3 weeks apart...I see you on on deck for IMCda+Whistler+Tahoe+Kona in the span of around 3 months! Don't remind me about that run around Fallen Leaf lake....that was more like a long hike with low blood sugar and no oxygen trying not to fall off a cliff and plummeting 300 feet into a lake....no way they would use that run loop or the Monitor descent in an Mdot race. Man, on the Monitor descent, I thought I was doing to die going over a cattle grate at 50 mph!!!

Hey, it's not too late - there's probably still a community fund/charity entry still available. :)

Yeah, the supreme commander gave me permission on the race schedule; figured if the barn door opened, the horse might as well take advantage of it...

I agree, Dev - the WTT descents over the cattle grates were pretty unnerving. Good thing Mdot doesn't use that course - ST probably couldn't handle all of the folks posting after the race.

Team Kiwami
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Re: Definitive Ironman Lake Tahoe Altitude Strategy Thread [iheartfestina] [ In reply to ]
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iheartfestina wrote:
I've seen a wide range of commentary on the effects of altitude on athletes at IMLT. This is a thread for experts to draw up a concrete protocol - not for anecdotes and conjecture. Please add other key questions that are not included.

What is the optimal strategy for arrival at altitude before the event?
Will an altitude tent help at this event? If so, how much?
Will frequent hypoxic training at altitude or with an altitude training mask help? If so, how much?
What effect will the thinner air/lower air resistance have on bike speeds?
Are there any other precautions one can take to limit the effects of altitude immediately before the race (supplements, sleep, nutrition, ect.)?

Nick

I am going to give this a try at the Tahoe 50M run in July and I'll let you know my thoughts :

http://www.mmaltitudetraining.com/

Here's their detailed documentation - http://mmaltitudetraining.com/...Mountain%20Might.pdf


Dave Stark
dreamcatcher@astound.net
USAC & USAT level 2 certified coach
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