Improvements in vertical jump by healthy adults at high altitude despite inter‐individual differences in neuromuscular coordination changes

Research indicates that the performance is enhanced in situations involving rapid movements at high altitude. However, maintaining equilibrium and walking economically in low-oxygen conditions are often impaired. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of trekking at high altitudes on static balance, vertical jump, gait, and maximal strength symmetry by using portable technologies. Fifteen healthy travelers (eight men and seven women, aged 41.67 ± 14.71 years) completed a high-altitude trekking expedition up to 5000 m and were tested for one-leg standing balance, gait, repeated counter-movement jumps, and symmetry of maximum plantar flexion strength of the ankle at peak altitude (HA) and at low altitude (before and after the high-altitude trek, LApre and LApost). The strategy developed for balance maintenance was focused on sagittal tilt. Gait analysis revealed an increase in hip range of motion in the sagittal and transverse planes at HA. Jump height increased from LApre to HA and LApost, while maximal strength symmetry exhibited non-homogeneous inter-individual changes. The observed increments in vertical jump were attributed to the beneficial effect of trekking, rather than to reduced air density. The use of portable instruments represents a significant advancement for research into motor control and physical performance at high altitude.