Playing and Competing at 2,240 meters
The Effect of Mexico City's Altitude on Sports Performance
Abstract
Mexico City, located at 2,240 meters above sea level, presents unique challenges to athletic performance. Lower atmospheric pressure reduces available oxygen, diminishing aerobic endurance and slowing recovery times. Lower air density also alters sports physics: balls travel faster and aerodynamic downforce decreases in events like Formula 1. Athletic success at this altitude demands scientific planning, rigorous hydration and nutrition, and precise acclimatization strategies.
References
Pérez-Padilla, J.R. (2022). Adaptation to moderate altitude hypoxemia: the example of the valley of Mexico. Revista de investigación clínica, 74(1), 4-15. https://doi.org/10.24875/ric.21000159
Ramchandani, R., Florica, I.T., Zhou, Z., Alemi, A., y Baranchuk, A. (2024). Review of athletic guidelines for high-altitude training and acclimatization. High Altitude Medicine & Biology, 25(2), 113-121. https://doi.org/10.1089/ham.2023.0042
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