Altitude pre-acclimatisation - Trekking/Mountaineering

A well-devised programme of acclimatisation will allow the body to adapt to the reduced oxygen availability and optimise physical performance. This will also reduce the risk of developing altitude-related illnesses such as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), or High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) which, if they develop, will affect the success of your expedition.

Our packages have proved very successful, with clients achieving significant treks and ascents at high-altitude. They have been created by our physiology and medical team, who, between them have supported expeditions to the greater ranges including climbing expeditions to Mount Everest and have personal experience of mountaineering at altitudes over 6,000m. The Carnegie School of Sport has a history of altitude and hypoxia research, regularly publishing research on acclimatisation mechanisms and strategies, and the effects of hypoxia on carbohydrate metabolism.

Regular exposure to a hypoxic environment is necessary to stimulate the body to adapt. To achieve higher levels of adaptation, a greater number of exposures and manipulation of exercise mode and intensity are required. Our approach involves utilising our state-of-the-art environmental chambers for between two to five hours per visit, over consecutive days or interspersed over several weeks. Throughout, each session we take regular measurements of your oxygen saturation, heart rate, and perception of effort.

The altitude, exercise mode and intensity are usually bespoke and is dependent on your event's demands and the number of people it is for.

• Two cutting-edge environmental chambers simulating up to 8,000m are accessible to the public
• Decades of applied research and mountaineering expertise
• Safe, personalised protocols supported by qualified physiologists and medics
• Individually tailored acclimatisation to boost safety, confidence, and performance

Pre-Acclimatisation Package(s)

Package 1: Altitude Initiation Block (10 hours, £850 on an individual basis).

This package is the minimum recommended for treks and climbs such as Kilimanjaro, Mont Blanc, Everest Base Camp, and other high-altitude treks and climbs:

• 10 hours over 3-5 days, last exposure ≤48 hours before travel
• Minimum effective dose to kickstart physiological adaptations
• Reduce anxiety and improve psychological readiness
• Optional follow-up protocols for more complete acclimatisation

Package 2: Fast-Track Acclimatisation (25 hours)

This package is recommended for individuals who are short of time and require a more concentrated acclimatisation schedule, and who are targeting destinations of higher altitude (e.g. 6,000m+) or want to reduce their in-country acclimatisation time (e.g. arriving at a higher elevation or ascending more quickly).

• Five hours per day over five to 10 days (25 hours total)
• Includes rest and exercise sessions for optimal adaptation
• Includes one cold-condition session to practise layering, equipment checks, and hydration systems
• Ideal for those with limited preparation time and limited in-country acclimatisation

Package 3: Gradual Acclimatisation (30 hours)

This package is recommended for individuals who are targeting higher altitude destinations (e.g. 6,000m+), and who want to spread the hypoxia exposures over a longer period to suit other commitments. This package can also be tailored to suit individual needs and expedition requirements.

• 3 hours per day over 10 to 20 days (30 hours total)
• Slower ascent profile for those new to altitude or needing more time to adapt
• More exposure for greater physiological and psychological benefits
• Includes cold-condition practice sessions to fine-tune layering, equipment checks, and hydration systems

Add an optional health assessment, with cardiac and blood screening, as a proactive way to support your wellbeing and altitude readiness.

Pre-expedition/acclimatisation Health Assessments (Recommended)

Exercising at higher altitudes puts additional stress on the heart due to the limited oxygen availability. For your safety, either during the acclimatisation sessions, or for your expedition, especially those above 4,000m, we recommend:

• Athlete pre-participation cardiac screening - to identify potential heart rhythm risks (medically supervised)
• Blood tests - including haemoglobin, iron status, and (if required) sickle cell trait screening

This preventative screening is recommended for anyone going to altitude to assess their suitability for exercise at high-altitude. This can be arranged with our team prior to the acclimatisation programme commencing. The completion of a Waiver Form is required if you do not wish to proceed with athlete pre-participation cardiac screening and sickle cell trait assessments prior to your programme. 

Group Booking Discounts Available!

Take advantage of exclusive discounts when you book as a group. Enjoy savings while creating unforgettable experiences together! Contact us for more details.

Additional Services for you to book

To optimise your preparation, we also offer (with discounts for package clients):

• Body composition scans (DXA)
• Physiological profiling and endurance testing
• Nutrition consultations
• Biomechanical running analysis
• Sports Injuries consultations/clinic