Applying the means of respiratory hypoxic-hypercapnic load in training of skilled ski racers

Aim. To study the feasibility of breathing simulator 'Carbonic' as a means of respiratory hypoxic-hypercapnic load in training of skilled ski racers. Research organization and methods. The subjects under observation were two groups of highly skilled ski-racers (Masters and Candidate Masters of Sports). The main hypoxic training devices used were the interval hypoxic training (IHT) and hypoxic tent. During exercising both groups of ski-racers had an equal physical load, but a distinctive feature of the training programs for each of the two groups was that the first (experimental) group used the breathing simulator ‘Carbonic’ by Professor V.P. Kulikov, whereas the second (test) group did not. Cardiovascular and respiratory control was carried out by means of the diagnostic system CardioSoft (USA), Firstbeat Sports software with Firstbeat Bodyguard recording device (Finland), and AngioScan-01P pulse oximeter (Russia). Results. It has been established that using breathing simulator 'Carbonic' as an ergogenic means of hypoxic training leads to significant increase of hypoxia tolerance levels in skilled ski racers and to acceleration of recovery processes after physical loads. Conclusion. The study has shown that using the hypoxic-hypercapnic mixture in training of skilled ski racers results in a combined positive effect of hypoxia and hypercapnia on the athlete’s body.