I received a great question from Fit Momma Audrey recently:

I’m preparing for my first ever 10K. I live on the east coast, which is flat and no elevation. The race is in Utah. The last time I visited, it took me quite awhile to adjust to the elevation, thinner air and hills. I don’t have very much time before my race to adjust, so I’m wondering what I can do in my training here to help prepare for that adjustment. Do you have any tips?

There are devices out there that simulate training at higher altitudes, however, unless you are training for the Olympic trials, save your pennies.

Some people are more effected by altitude than others. Some are puking on the side of the road and others are just breathing harder. I don’t think with this length of race you’ll see that much of a drastic difference. Yes, you will be breathing harder and it may take you a bit longer to get into your “groove” — but just accept it and enjoy the fact that you are able to run such a gorgeous race in such a gorgeous place!

A few suggestions are:

- Run hills either on a treadmill or actual hills

- Run sprints on flats and hills

- Throw the kids in a jog stroller and run! You’ll feel like Florence Griffith Joyner during the race without them!

Instead of just miles, miles, miles, think intensity. Training for any sort of endurance race does need the miles, yes, however to dedicate some time each week to some HIIT is very effective, takes less time, and your body loves the change!

It’s great training for altitude training as well as just getting in great shape.

Also, I would definitely suggest to stay nice and hydrated during your stay there as well.

Good luck on your race!

Hey Fit Mommas!  What have you done to train for a race at a higher elevation?  What was your experience during the race?  Comment below and tell us WHAT WORKS!

Like this? Want more? Subscribe to Trainer Momma’s RSS feed and the weekly TM Newsletter!