Correct option is C
At high altitudes, the atmospheric oxygen (O₂) level is significantly reduced, leading to lower oxygen availability in the air. This condition, known as hypoxia, affects the body's ability to sustain high-intensity training.
Key Reasons: 1. Reduced Atmospheric Oxygen (c):
· Lower oxygen pressure at altitude reduces oxygen diffusion into the lungs and blood, limiting aerobic metabolism and decreasing the ability to sustain high-intensity workouts.
2. Impact on Oxygen Transport (b):
· Less oxygen binds to hemoglobin (HbO₂), further reducing the oxygen delivered to muscles.
3. Reduced Training Intensity:
· With limited oxygen, muscles fatigue more quickly, and the athlete must reduce the intensity of their training to compensate.
Explanation of Other Options: · (a) Decreased blood volume:
· Blood volume may initially decrease due to dehydration at altitude, but this is not the primary reason for reduced training intensity.
· (b) Decreased HbO₂:
· While true, this is a consequence of lower atmospheric oxygen, not the root cause.
· (d) Decreased anaerobic metabolism:
· Anaerobic metabolism is not directly affected by altitude; it depends on the energy systems in use during exercise.
Correct Answer:
(c) Decreased atmospheric O₂
Information Booster 1. Why "Live High, Train Low"?
· Living at altitude stimulates physiological adaptations like increased erythropoietin production.
· Training at lower altitudes ensures athletes maintain high training intensity.
2. Challenges of Training at Altitude:
· Reduced oxygen availability limits aerobic capacity.
· Increased fatigue and slower recovery.
3. Optimal Altitude Range:
· Living at 2,000–2,500 meters above sea level for effective erythropoietin stimulation.
· Training at <1,500 meters to maintain performance intensity.