You might think that preparing for the Olympics is all about strength, speed, and endurance. But for athletes competing at high altitudes, there's a whole other dimension to consider: the impact of altitude on their bodies. And it's not just about physical fitness - it's a delicate dance with oxygen levels and cardiovascular function.
The upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics will showcase this challenge, with venues spanning a dramatic vertical range. From the Tesero cross-country stadium to the Vertigine downhill start, athletes will be pushing their limits in the thin air of the Dolomites.
But here's where it gets controversial: many people assume that being fit will protect them from the effects of altitude. However, experts like Joshua Merson, an associate clinical professor at Northeastern University, argue that fitness alone isn't enough.
"At altitude, there is less oxygen with each breath due to lower atmospheric pressure," Merson explains. "Your body tries to compensate, but it's a delicate balance. If you climb too fast, your body can't keep up, and that's when things start to go wrong."
And this is the part most people miss: hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation, can have serious consequences. It triggers an inflammatory response, disrupting blood pressure regulation and causing fluid leakage. In other words, it's not just a matter of feeling out of breath - it's a complex physiological response that can lead to altitude sickness.
Altitude sickness presents with symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue, similar to a hangover. But these symptoms can be subtle, and if ignored, can progress to more dangerous conditions.
Hypoxia isn't exclusive to high altitudes either. It can occur at ground level due to various factors like long flights, heat stress, or intense training. Understanding hypoxia is crucial for athletes to train smarter and avoid overreaching.
Sarah Spelsberg, director of U.S. Operations at World Extreme Medicine, emphasizes the importance of recognizing hypoxic stress. "The body responds by increasing heart rate and shifting metabolism, but if the demand for oxygen exceeds supply, that's when problems start."
So, how do clinicians identify when hypoxia is affecting athletes? Merson shares, "I look for subtle cues. The talkative athlete suddenly goes quiet. The expert packer struggles with their gear. These are signs that something is amiss."
The 1968 Mexico City Olympics provide a stark reminder of the impact of altitude. Australian runner Ron Clarke collapsed after the 10,000 meters, and U.S. swimmer Suzy Jones, despite training at high altitudes, still experienced sickness.
Merson emphasizes, "Fitness doesn't guarantee protection from altitude sickness. Genetics also play a role."
And it's not just about individual peaks - different mountain regions have varying effects. In New England, even the highest peaks don't reach the elevations where altitude stress becomes severe. But in Colorado, with its 14,000-foot peaks, athletes are much closer to the threshold where thinner air impacts performance and recovery.
So, as we gear up for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics, let's appreciate the incredible challenges these athletes face. It's not just about physical prowess - it's a battle against the elements, where every breath counts.
