Altitude Difference

Monument15

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Aug 18, 2016
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I currently live in Texas and I am aware that the change in altitude if i were to attend the Air Force Academy would be very physically demanding what can i do to get my body ready in every way to be able to perform at peak condition when i reach the acadademy. Thanks
 
I currently live in Texas and I am aware that the change in altitude if i were to attend the Air Force Academy would be very physically demanding what can i do to get my body ready in every way to be able to perform at peak condition when i reach the acadademy. Thanks

Get your body ready for the acadademy by continuing to get good grades, smoke the SAT, build up your ECAs, and have a great senior year.
Unless you're a recruited athlete or have an LOA, I wouldn't put the cart before the horse. Even if you do, it us waaay too early to assume you will receive an appointment. Lots could happen before May.
 
While what Maplerock says is important, do not neglect your fitness. The best thing for being prepared for the altitude is to do lots of cardio. The measured items for the Pft/aft are running, push ups, sit ups, pull ups, and standing long jump. You'll also want to be good at flutter kicks and 10 count body builders.
 
Unless you can build a big mountain in Texas then you can't do anything about the altitude. My DS had issues with nose bleeds, heart racing and sinuses during BCT. It affects everyone a little different. I have lived twice in Colorado and visited the state many times. It has affected me differently on some trips.

Right now, focus on what you can control.
 
Raimius is absolutely correct re: fitness and the focus on cardio! In fact, he hits all the points precisely: setup a great workout plan with the excercises he lists...and a lot of core work: planks, etc., and then run...don't go for speed, go for endurance. If you can't go out and "liesurely" run 3-4 miles, whenever asked, then it's time to start building up.

Altitude...you can't do anything about that unless you move to a high elevation. This is a physiological issue...to avoid the long classroom sounding explanation, let's put it this way: your body will produce a LOT more red blood cells when you move up in elevation to acclimate you to the altitude. The process takes @23 days, give or take per person....so by the time you hit Jack's Valley, you're pretty close to "normal."

Steve
USAFA ALO
USAFA '83
 
Texan here! I am from Houston and a current 4C:

I didn't really feel the altitude change that much. I think a plan has been set to help with acclimation, but it gets people differently. I didn't get the chance to work out much over the summer due to Ramadan and the slight dehydration from there, but I was fine. Just make sure to continue getting ready and to not get into any trouble before BCT. I'll also tell you right now, some of the fit people in my flight had trouble on a few things. The cadre get creative! Good luck!!
 
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