“Live High–Train High” increases hemoglobin mass in Olympic swimmers

Purpose This study tested whether 3–4 weeks of classical “Live High–Train High” (LHTH) altitude training increases swim-specific VO 2max through increased hemoglobin mass (Hb mass ). Methods Ten swimmers lived and trained for more than 3 weeks between 2,130 and 3,094 m of altitude, and a control group of ten swimmers followed the same training at sea-level (SL). Body composition was examined using dual X-ray absorptiometry. Hb mass was determined by carbon monoxide rebreathing. Swimming VO 2peak was determined and swimming trials of 4 × 50, 200 and 3,000 m were performed before and after the intervention. Results Hb mass ( n = 10) was increased ( P