Tips For Running In Higher Altitude Than You Are Used To

I was up at my cabin in West Virginia this weekend. It's located in Canaan Valley which is at about 3200 feet above sea level (where I usually live.) I decided to go for a run while there and it was so nice to be out in the pretty scenery, running through the woods in the cool mountain air. But I noticed that I was gasping for breath more than usual and decided it must be because of the higher altitude. This happens because the pressure changes make it harder for your body to absorb the oxygen when you breathe, so your muscles receive less and you tire more easily.

Some tips to remember when running at a higher elevation than you are used to:

1) Wait a few days to try running at your usual pace until your body has adjusted to the new altitude. Start out slow for a day or two and see how you feel before picking up your pace.

2) Remember to breathe deeply and steadily to maximize your oxygen intake. Take shorter strides to help keep you from running out of breath.

3) If you begin to feel disoriented stop right away. This can be a sign of altitude sickness.

4) The air is thin and dry at higher altitudes so you can become dehydrated more easily. Drink more than usual to compensate.

5) Be sure to get enough rest as your system is working harder than normal.

6) Remember that readjusting to the lower altitude can be equally challenging when you return home, so take it easy on reentry as well.