Even though the aftermaths of altitude training may give an athlete a sufficient edge over their competition, it is only temporary; “the physiological adaptations they gain can be lost in just two to four weeks once returning to lower elevation” (Boutin). It is also not meant for all athletes, very few non-elite athletes are going to fly to the closest mountain or purchase the equipment needed for the same effect. In addition, sprinters could even perform poorer due to their incapability to train at a high intensity because of altitude. In conclusion, for highly competitive track and field athletes, it may only be beneficial for those needing to improve their endurance fitness and are willing to change their diet and lifestyle.
Even though, the reward of altitude training may help an athlete in competition, there are many health problems that are mainly caused by improper training or precautions. For some athletes they may encounter problems with too many blood cells; “having too many blood cells makes the blood thicker and can make blood flow sluggish” (Simpson), so it is important to avoid over training in order to prevent such drawbacks. The athletes may also lose too much weight, which can be unhealthy and dangerous; “the body actually consumes your muscles in order to provide energy” (Simpson), so it is crucial that the athletes have a sufficient diet in order to prevent too much muscle loss. Athletes may also encounter an increase in water loss; “dryness and altitude-induced hyperventilation causes an increase in water loss via breathing, it is also important to drink sufficient fluid while at altitude and reduce the use of caffeinated drinks which can act as a mild diuretic” (Mackenzie).
In addition to drinking enough fluids it is also crucial to alter an athlete's diet in order to meet the nutritional values to stay healthy at a high altitude; “lower oxygen levels mean that the demand for carbohydrates is proportionally higher and a healthy iron status is also desirable for the production of red blood cells. A nutrient rich diet is also recommended to help counter the possibility of illness and infections due to suppression of immune system at altitude” (Mackenzie), many of these hazards can be overcome and controlled. By starting the training out slowly (and not rushing to a greater height too quickly), and a proper diet the athlete will be able to overcome most symptoms of mountain sickness and other illnesses they may be caused by inadequate precautions.
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