The Altitude Centre are working with Doctors and researchers from the Xtreme Everest expedition before they set foot on Everest. With the ability to simulate altitudes up to 22,000ft research studies and pieces of technical equipment used to gauge the way the brain and lungs respond to low concentrations of oxygen have been tested before they go.

In the picture, a willing volunteer is undergoing a pupillometry test to measure the speed at which the pupil contracts and dilates under hypoxic conditions. Meanwhile, Trans-Cranial Doppler (TCD) and Near Infra Red Spectrometry (NIRS) devices provide continuous data on blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain whilst the hi-tech vest allows measurement of the depth and frequency of breathing.

The Altitude Centre is the UKs only Pre-acclimatisation specialist, utilising the latest technology in simulated altitude (hypoxic) training. The Altitude centre have not be allowed to pre-acclimatise any of the research subjects going on the Everest trek, as unacclimatised subjects are required for research purposes, however we are very pleased to be working with the team on specific pieces of research and hope to learn more about the intricate acclimatisation process. This knowledge will help us train out clients for safer and more enjoyable mountaineering trips and also help us in the work we do with sports performance.

Acclimatising the body to become more efficient with available oxygen doesn?t just help those going to high altitude. Sports people looking for the edge are also incorporating altitude training into their daily training schedules to naturally boost performance at sea level.

The Altitude Centre makes accessible something that has previously only been available to a select few. The Centre provides bespoke solutions to meet individual needs, with a list of blue chip clients including professional sports bodies, teams, gyms and individual athletes and climbers.

?We are unique in what we do; by offering all forms of simulated altitude training we are able to create a training strategy that is right for the individual? says Richard Pullan, director at The Altitude Centre.

The following services are currently available from The Altitude Centre:

• Specific advice on altitude training and preparation
  
• Altitude training sessions at their Covent Garden location, London.
  
• Rental of Simulated Altitude Equipment
  
• Sales of Simulated Altitude Equipment for individual or team use

More information is available at their website www.altitudecentre.com or
by contacting direct on 08709504479.

?We are very pleased to be working with the Xtreme Everest expedition and wish all of the team a safe and happy trip?.

Richard Pullan
Director
The Altitude Centre