12 days of altitude exposure at 1800 m does not increase resting metabolic rate in elite rowers

Abstract

Four elite rowers completed a 12-day altitude training camp living at 1800 m, and training at 1800 m and 915 m, to assess changes in resting metabolic rate (RMR). RMR and body composition were assessed pre- and postcamp. Downward trends in RMR and body composition were observed postaltitude: absolute RMR (percent change: –5.2%), relative RMR (–4.6%), body mass (–1.2%), and fat mass (–4.1%). These variations are likely related to the hypoxic stimulus and an imbalance between training load and energy intake.