Intermittent Hypoxic Training

Equipment

• Everest Summit II Generator
• Universal Mask Kit and All-Purpose Mask
• Finger-tip Pulse Oximeter
• Handi Oxygen Monitor (optional)

About

IHT is based on the principle of cyclic repetitions of hypoxic episodes in the body, induced by breathing normobaric hypoxic air, and subsequent re-oxygenation by inhalation of ambient air.

The optimal intensity and duration of the hypoxia/re-oxygenation cycles have been determined through extensive scientific research. In general the protocols are based on 3 - 5 minute hypoxia/re-oxygenation cycles. However, they can be individually customized to suit the application of IHT for a specific athletic purpose or to treat and prevent various diseases.

To maximize the benefits of IHT here are some general guidelines to follow:

1. Always complete your IHT session at least 30 – 40 min before eating any meal. Likewise, do not perform IHT for at least 2 hours following a meal, as this will diminish the effect.
2. Athletes can perform IHT sessions during the recovery period following a routine physical training session.
3. Never make the period of hypoxic inhalation longer than 5 min. It will not increase effect. On the contrary, it can diminish it.
4. There is no need to decrease the O2 concentration for IHT lower than 9.5% as it will not result in any additional benefits. However, it is not unsafe (in some therapeutic protocols 8% O2 is used).
5. Try to do one session a day, or at least every other day. You can miss 2 – 4 days of IHT and there will be no de-training or loss of adaptation. You can continue from where you left off. However, if you miss more than 5 – 7 days, you should start the regimen from the beginning to get the maximum adaptation.

IHT Protocol