Experience with the Training Mask?

SamuraiJake1985

I was thinking of getting a training mask for a few things I do during MMA training. I've researched alot bout it, and from the readings it might not be worth the money at all... So, before I make my final decision, I would like some actual people experiences with it. Any gains? Anything come good out of getting one? What I have researched was alot of scientific research. But no actual reviews based on people. Just don't want to buy something that might not be worth buying. I'd appreciate guys!

pinggolfer96

Elevation masks won't do anything. Being at an actual elevation is what your body adapts to. The only the the mask will do is make you more comfortable with getting used to being choked, which may benefit you in Mma lol, but other than that, no it's a waste

SamuraiJake1985

Thank you! That's what I was worried about. I appreciate your review on it! I dont know if i wanna be choking on my sprints, runs, training etc lol I usually get out of being choked, I don't think I want something to choke me purposely lmao! I appreciate it!

Azdak

Altitude masks don't actually simulate training at altitude. They are more "respiratory resistance" devices, forcing the muscles involved in ventilation to work harder. Research results are mixed, but IMO shade towards "no benefit". Basically, the only "improvement" demonstrated is in the strength of the muscles involved in breathing--e.g. There is improvement for certain pulmonary tests. However, VO2 max (the whole point behind breathing in the first place) has only been shown to improve in studies featuring relatively untrained subjects--people for whom almost ANY intervention will have a positive effect.

TBH, even real altitude training is likely of limited to no benefit for the average person. Any increase in red blood cells is offset by the fact that you can't train as hard at altitude. So altitude performance is improved (specificity of training), but not sea level performance.

I usually avoid personal anecdotes, but this one fits so well, it's one of my favorites. A number of years ago, when I was a more accomplished runner, I took a 3-week trip in the western US (I live in Illinois). I ran a hilly, 5-mile course at home right before I left, achieving one of my best times ever (sub-33 min) for that course. I did a lot of fast mountain hiking and running at altitude during the trip. On the way home, I stopped at a highway rest stop that had a lot of steps and I bounded up them effortlessly. The day I returned I felt so awesome I decided to rerun the 5 mile course. Wanting an honest comparison, I did not look at my stopwatch until the end. I felt like a running God--the uphills felt like down hills, it almost felt like my legs could not move fast enough to keep up with my heart. As I approached the finish, I could hardly wait to see my amazing, record-shattering time. Hit the finish, stopped the watch, eagerly looked down to see----

Two minutes slower than before the trip.

Lesson learned.

SamuraiJake1985

I appreciate all the info! Very helpful. I've decided not to get it, I was hoping it would improve more round times, currently training 10 rounds, 5 minutes high intensity training, 30 second break in between rounds. Spar nights are 2 extra rounds. But seems like it'll just hinder my bouts. I run about 3 to 5 miles a day which I also was going to use it for to improve my times, didn't see any concrete research that actually made results better. I appreciate it! Great story!