Does “live high-train low (and high)” hypoxic training alter running mechanics in elite team-sport players?

This study aimed to investigate if “live high-train low (and high)” hypoxic training alters constant-velocity running mechanics. while residing under normobaric hypoxia (≥14 h·d-1; fio2 14.5-14.2%) for 14 days,twenty field hockey players performed,in addition to their usual training in normoxia,six sessions (4 × 5 × 5-s maximal sprints; 25 s passive recovery; 5 min rest) under either normobaric hypoxia (fio2 ~14.5%,n = 9) or normoxia (fio2 20.9%,n = 11). before and immediately after the intervention,their running pattern was assessed at 10 and 15 km·h-1 as well as during six 30-s runs at ~20 km·h-1 with 30-s passive recovery on an instrumented motorised treadmill. no clear changes in running kinematics and spring-mass parameters occurred globally either at 10,15 or ~20 km·h-1,with also no significant time × condition interaction for any parameters (p > 0.14). independently of the condition,heart rate (all p < 0.05) and ratings of perceived exertion decreased post-intervention (only at 15 km·h-1,p < 0.05). despite indirect signs for improved psycho-physiological responses,no forthright change in stride mechanical pattern occurred after “live high-train low (and high)” hypoxic training. © journal of sports science and medicine.