Training at high altitudes is a proven method to enhance endurance performance, and Laura Philipp’s recent camp in St. Moritz is a testament to its effectiveness. As she prepares for the Ironman World Championship, Laura has strategically incorporated high-altitude training into her regimen, blending it with innovative tools like the LEVER system to optimize her performance. We will dive into Laura’s experience at the camp, highlighting how she integrates these advanced techniques to gain a competitive edge.
High-Altitude Training in St. Moritz
Laura Philipp’s training camp in St. Moritz wasn’t just about putting in miles; it was about embracing the challenges and unique benefits of training at altitude. “Now I'm up here in Switzerland in St. Moritz, and the next altitude camp is coming up,” Laura shares. The camp focused on Ironman-specific preparation, where she utilized the thin air and challenging terrain to simulate race conditions for her upcoming races, which is also at altitude.
Altitude training offers several physiological benefits, including increased blood plasma volume and enhanced oxygen-carrying capacity. As Laura notes, “Altitude training has a number of effects, some are easier to grasp and visible...You develop a bit higher blood plasma volume when you spend appropriate time at altitude.” This adaptation is crucial for endurance athletes who need to perform at their peak in races held at similar elevations.
Incorporating the LEVER System
A key component of Laura’s training at St. Moritz was the integration of the LEVER system during her running sessions. The LEVER system, which allows athletes to reduce their body weight while running on a treadmill, plays a vital role in maintaining speed and intensity without overstressing the body. Laura explains, “The special thing about the LEVER system is that you can make yourself a bit lighter, and therefore reduce the strain on the body, especially in faster runs.”
Even though Laura was in top health, she still found the LEVER system beneficial for her high-intensity sessions. “Currently I'm really well, I'm healthy, and I still use it to reduce the strain, or to do a bit of overspeed work,” she says. The ability to reduce impact while maintaining speed allowed her to train efficiently, especially at altitude where recovery times can be longer.
Training Insights and Adaptations
Laura’s camp in St. Moritz wasn’t just about physical training; it also involved mental and strategic preparation. She emphasized the importance of adapting to the environment, especially when training at altitude, where every session feels more intense. “But up here it was difficult that every session feels a bit up to a lot harder than at home,” Laura admits, highlighting the challenges of maintaining performance in such conditions.
Despite the challenges, Laura’s focus remained unwavering. She took full advantage of the serene, distraction-free environment to enhance her training quality. “There are very few distractions, leading to a very high quality of training,” she notes, underscoring the importance of the mental aspect in such a demanding sport.
Laura Philipp’s training camp in St. Moritz showcases the meticulous planning and advanced techniques required to perform at the highest level in triathlon. By combining the natural advantages of high-altitude training with innovative tools like the LEVER system, Laura is setting herself up for success at the Ironman World Championship. Her journey serves as an inspiration for athletes looking to push their boundaries and achieve new heights in their performance.
Whether you’re training for an Ironman or just looking to improve your running, incorporating altitude training and the LEVER system into your regimen could be the key to unlocking your full potential. Stay tuned for more insights into Laura’s journey as she continues to prepare for one of the most challenging races of her career.
