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HOW SHOULD CYCLISTS PREPARE FOR A RACE AT ALTITUDE?

By Anthony WalshRoadman CyclingUpdated

FUELLING

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WHO THIS IS FOR

IS THIS YOU?

The sea-level cyclist entering a high-altitude event

You need travel, pacing and safety decisions before arrival.

THE ROADMAN VIEW

The Roadman view

Treat altitude as an environment to respect, not a power deficit to out-tough.

EXPERT EVIDENCE

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY

  • Altitude medicine and endurance guidanceAcclimatisation and altitude-illness literature

    Acclimatisation, ascent profile and individual susceptibility affect both performance and illness risk.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

DO THIS WEEK

  1. Map exposure

    Record start, average, climb and sleep elevations.

  2. Plan arrival

    Choose timing with experienced medical or performance guidance.

  3. Reduce demand

    Use RPE, symptoms and conservative pacing rather than sea-level targets.

COMMON MISTAKES

WHAT CYCLISTS GET WRONG

  • MISTAKEChasing sea-level FTP on the first climb.

    FIXUse a conservative range and reassess.

  • MISTAKEIgnoring headache or worsening illness.

    FIXStop, seek assessment and descend when advised.

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How early should I arrive?
There is no one best window for every elevation and athlete. Use the event profile and individual guidance.
How much power will I lose?
No fixed percentage fits every athlete and altitude. Build a conservative range from experience or supervised testing.
Does fitness prevent altitude illness?
No. Fitness does not guarantee protection from altitude illness.

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