AltiTrainer
Individual altitude simulation –
Innovation for hypoxia training and testing
Hypoxia training is a training method based on the adaptation of the body to reduced oxygen levels. Classically, this is done at high altitudes, which is of course not always possible nor practical and not economically viable for every workout. The AltiTrainer also supports Intermittent Hypoxic-Hyperoxic Training (IHHT).
-
Simulates altitudes
up to 5,500 m -
Mitochondrial
interval training
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Easy & comfortable
for the patient -
Hypoxic
training
Altitude simulation.*
AltiTrainer is an innovating device for research in hypoxic, hyperoxic, and hypercapnic condition.
Exposure to high altitude environment causes reactions in the body. The versatility of the AltiTrainer configures appropriate tests for performance and research safely. Simulated altitude training with regeneration in plain is now possible with AltiTrainer. The device makes it possible to simulate altitudes up to 5,500 m. With AltiTrainer it is possible to train subjects to intensive training in hypoxia conditions with ventilatory flows up to 200l/min. Like this, the AltiTrainer is the only device on the market, which allows such high flow rates and thus allows training at the VO2max level of high level athletes.
AltiTrainer is designed to deliver the large amounts of hypoxic air required by a high performance athlete at full exertion. The working height can be freely selected and controlled by a microprocessor in conjunction with an oxygen probe. The device combines reliability, efficiency, simplicity and economy.
* Manufacturer: SMTEC (Sport & Médical Technologies) S.A.
Application of the AltiTrainer
Sports performance
The AltiTrainer benefits sports performance by stimulating physiological adaptations that improve the body’s ability to transport, utilize, and conserve oxygen. These adaptations are particularly valuable for endurance athletes, though they can also benefit athletes in other disciplines.
In particular
- Endurance Enhancement: Simulated hypoxia is used by athletes to improve aerobic capacity and stamina by stimulating red blood cell production and mitochondrial efficiency
- Altitude Training Preparation: Prepares athletes for competitions or activities at high altitudes by acclimatizing their bodies to low-oxygen conditions
- Recovery and Conditioning: Helps reduce recovery time and optimize conditioning in off-seasons or during injury rehabilitation
Medical use
Hypoxia is proved to have various advantages in medical and hospital use.
In particular
- Assists in treating conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and cardiovascular diseases by improving oxygen utilization
- Hypoxia therapy can help combat fatigue, in diseases like chronic fatigue syndom by boosting cellular energy production and improving mitochondrial health
- In sleep apnea research, simulated hypoxia is used to study the effects of oxygen deprivation on sleep and to develop treatments for obstructive sleep apnea
- Hypoxia is used during the high altitude simulation test (HAST), in order to evaluate if patients with respiratory diseases like COPD or asthma, are ready to fly in commercial airplanes with or without the use of supplemental oxygen
Rehabilitation
- Improves cardiac rehabilitation after myocardial infarction or similar cardiovascular conditions
- Enhances recovery by improving circulation and oxygen delivery to damaged tissues post injury
- Hypoxia simulation may promote neuroplasticity and aid in recovery after strokes or other brain injuries
Acclimatization and Mountaineering preparation
Use of hypoxic training can drastically reduce the acclimatization time. Thousands of people each year ascend to altitude, may it be for mountaineering expedition or just ski vacation. Mountaineers must spend weeks at base camp for acclimatizing, which costs thousand of euros. The AltiTrainer helps reducing this time and helps to prepare the body better for those conditions. In particular the device can be used for the following:
- Rapid Ascent Mountaineering
- Decrease of time spend in base camp and better preparation for altitude conditions
- Training for prevention of altitude sickness
Aerospace and Military Training
- High-Altitude Acclimatization: Prepares pilots, astronauts, and soldiers for missions in high-altitude environments where oxygen levels are low
- Hypoxia Awareness Training: Used to train individuals to recognize and respond to hypoxia symptoms in extreme environments
- Increased physical fitness (up to 5% higher VO2max and increase of lactate threshold, enhance of endurance, stamina and power output)
Explore the AltiTrainer
- Simply tap or hover on the circle plus buttons to display the note.
Simulated altitude training
Simulated altitude training with regeneration in plain is now possible – To simulate the altitudes up to 5,500m above the sea level. Even to train the subjects to intensive training in hypoxia conditions with ventilatory flows up to 200l/min.
Medical Research
Exposure to high altitude environment causes reactions in the body. The set of health problems related to altitude is the subject of ongoing research. The versatility of the AltiTrainer configures appropriate tests for patients and research safely.
IHHT, or IHT?
The choice between IHHT (Intermittent Hypoxic-Hyperoxic Training) and IHT (Intermittent Hypoxic Training) depends on the specific goals, health status, and needs of the individual.
IHT
(Intermittent Hypoxic Training)
- Involves alternating periods of hypoxia (low oxygen) with normal oxygen levels.
- Simulates high-altitude conditions to improve oxygen efficiency and endurance.
- Focuses primarily on adaptation to oxygen scarcity, which triggers physiological benefits like improved oxygen transport and utilization.
IHHT
(Intermittent Hypoxic-Hyperoxic Training)
- Combines periods of hypoxia with hyperoxia (high oxygen levels)
- Adds a recovery phase during hyperoxia, reducing oxidative stress and promoting cellular repair
- Targets mitochondrial health and energy production more directly than IHT
| Feature |
IHT |
IHHT |
|---|---|---|
|
Athletic Performance |
Improves endurance, VO₂ max, and stamina. |
Similar benefits, but with possibly faster recovery. |
|
Mitochondrial Health |
Indirectly supports mitochondrial function. |
Actively promotes mitochondrial repair and rejuvenation. |
|
Stress on the Body |
Moderate oxidative stress from hypoxia. |
Reduced oxidative stress due to hyperoxic phases. |
|
Recovery |
Slower, as normal oxygen levels follow hypoxia. |
Accelerated, thanks to hyperoxia. |
|
Applications |
Suitable for athletes aiming for endurance. |
Broader, including chronic fatigue, aging, and cellular health. |
Use cases
IHT is better for:
- Athletes preparing for endurance sports or altitude training.
- Individuals looking for traditional hypoxic adaptation benefits, like improved VO₂ max and oxygen transport capacity.
IHHT is better for:
- People recovering from illness, chronic fatigue, or mitochondrial dysfunction.
- Those seeking anti-aging benefits, enhanced energy, or cellular repair.
- General wellness enthusiasts who want performance and recovery in one package.
Conclusion
If your primary goal is improved endurance and oxygen efficiency, IHT may suffice.
However, if you’re looking for a more balanced, recovery-oriented approach with additional benefits like mitochondrial health and reduced oxidative stress, IHHT is likely the better choice. By request we can provide relevant scientific literature.
Set-Ups
The training in hypoxia with AltiTrainer lends itself to all the sporting practices with training on stationary apparatuses, which are treadmills, ergometric bicycles or e.g. rowing machines. It offers full flexibility and can be quickly switched between different devices. One device will thus meet the needs of different user groups, making its use very effective.
Ergonomic bicycle with standard-trolley*
Treadmill with height-adjustable trolley (opt.)*
* AltiTrainer is for research-only. It is not a registered medical device.
