Hypoxia (high altitude running)

Hypoxia occurs when running at high altitudes, where oxygen levels are lower. This forces the body to adapt by producing more red blood cells to improve oxygen delivery. Runners may experience increased endurance and performance upon returning to lower altitudes. Training in hypoxic conditions can enhance aerobic capacity and efficiency. Real-world examples include athletes training in places like Boulder, Colorado, or Flagstaff, Arizona. It matters to runners because it can lead to improved sea-level performance, although it requires careful acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness and ensure effective training adaptations.