There have been many devices launched on the market to aid in VO2 Max, improving oxygen utilisation and increasing various measures of lung function. Probably the most popular, best regarded and certainly amongst the most reasonably priced is the Elevation Training Mask which is currently available in version 2.0
The basis for the working of this mask is a system of valves that restrict air flow. These valves are attached to a mask, and the mask is made of a stretchy material which goes over the nose and mouth and is held in place with velcro fastenings.
The valves can be adjusted to vary the level of air restriction which the manufacturers claim to be an equivalent of 3,000 feet above sea level to a maximum of 18,000 feet above sea level. The valves can be adjusted on the go so that resistance can be adjusted very rapidly, even during exercise. This variation in resistance is what has given it the nickname of the High Altitude Training Mask.
So how justified are these claims, do they stack up with scientific thinking and how did our tester get on with the mask