High altitude training

I am aware that in locations mentioned above (previous post) the altitude is not really that high. 2500m is nothing to be too crazy about and international pressure to push for Iten is a bit overrated. I think the main advantage of Iten is the ability to compete with the best ones and that’s it. Otherwise there are towns located 4000m+. Proper towns, not some tiny settlements.As High Altitude towns are my favorite destinations and the best perspective to explore new lands,  I happened to get to know quite a few of them all around the world. I list some of them here, and in this field Soth America rules:
(sources of the images: Wikipedia)

El Alto, Bolivia, 4150mts, 1mln+

Cerro De Pasco, Peru, 4650mts, 0,07mln+

Puno, Peru, 3800mts, 0.01mln+


The altitude of 4000m is actually too high and doesnt allow for the optimal benefit of body adopting to lower oxygen level due to the air density drop. Perfect high altitude is closer to 3500m as it allows you to make the best out of the high altitude training. And there are plenty of towns to choose from. When it gets to 4000m and above the fat metabolism is being disturbed due to oxygen shortage and it has many consequences related to fitness and performance. 5000m+ doesn't really allow for the fat to burn at all and, basing on sugars, especially simple sugars,it is definitely not a great enhancement for your performance. And if you happen to arrive there by a motorbike, itis possible that in some cases you will experience the engine refusing to work. If you gain elevation within a very short time, for example arrive by a plane, the first 3 days do nothing! Otherwise the altitude sickness will extend your adaptation period signifficantly.

why simple sugars are not the best energy form?

At the end, short note worth mentioning. Apparently Buteyko method brings same results as high altitude training, regardless of what altitude you live at.

Other travels

P.S. Don't ask me what it is.

Inside the suitcase-like box in the photo is a portable rowing machine personally owned by George F. Jowett, a very influential writer, athlete and promoter of weight training during the first half of the 20th century. Called the “Seat of Health,” this rowing machine is made of stainless steel and was marketed as a device which could be carried on trips by busy, but fitness-conscious, travellers.

Where do I know it from.....?

Another interesting place I came across recently in the other part of our globe was Aurobindo Spiritual Center in Pondicherry, India. (place known to many of you as a hometown of Pi from "Life of Pi") It was one of the few very interesting places combining the physical education and spiritual practice. One of very few places of that type. I visited itmainly because I was constantly coming acrossAurobindo's name being mentioned by famous people born on the same day I was born. It was really surprising to see the humble spiritual center equipped withproper olympic gym, fitness gym and facilities for all sorts of sports. There was a beautiful, heartbraking rowing ergometer from the 40ties in tip top shape. Unfortunately I wasn't allowed to take picture of it.

And here is the scan of the founder of the center talking about fitness and beauty. Well, I would definitely contribute to it :)

Africa

Most of these months I spent in Africa involved in high altitude training. I would like to share one of the films that caught my attention:

It's a modern day fairy tale that quite realistically sets us on a journey through all of the beauty and struggle Africa consists of. Ultimately it generates hope.