Comparative Effectiveness of Hypoxic Training Versus Traditional Sea-Level Training on VO₂ Max in Male Athletes Aged 20–30: A Randomised Controlled Trial
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This randomized controlled trial compared the effects of 12 weeks of structured hypoxic training using normobaric masks (FiO₂ ~15%) versus traditional sea-level training on VO₂ max and related physiological adaptations in trained male athletes aged 20–30 years. Sixty athletes were randomly assigned to either a hypoxic training group (n = 30) or a normoxic control group (n = 30), with both undergoing identical endurance training protocols involving base runs, interval sessions, tempo runs, and long-duration efforts, five days per week. Pre- and post-training assessments included VO₂ max testing via graded treadmill protocols, hemoglobin concentration, lactate threshold evaluation, and resting heart rate. Subjective responses such as exertion, fatigue, and recovery were also recorded. After 12 weeks, the hypoxic group showed a significantly greater increase in VO₂ max (+5.2 ± 1.8 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) compared to the control group (+3.4 ± 1.5 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹), with p < 0.01. Hemoglobin levels increased more substantially in the hypoxic group (+1.2 ± 0.5 g/dL vs. +0.4 ± 0.3 g/dL; p < 0.01). Lactate threshold improved in both groups, with a slightly greater relative shift in the hypoxic group. Although both groups experienced reductions in resting heart rate, the hypoxic group exhibited a more notable trend (p = 0.08). Participants training in hypoxia reported higher perceived exertion early in the program, but adapted over time and reported enhanced psychological motivation. These findings suggest that normobaric hypoxic training using mask systems may confer superior improvements in aerobic capacity and hematological adaptation compared to normoxic training, supporting its application as an effective ergogenic method in competitive endurance athletes.
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