SummitPost.org

I’m sitting here contemplating my navel about the fact that I have attempted to summit a 6000 meter trekking peak 4 times, unsuccessfully, the last time 2 years ago on Chimborazo when I was 64. I made it to high camp 3 times (including Mera at 19.21k ft.) but turned back due to exhaustion twice (and conditions once). I swore off trying again, but here I am at 66 thinking about another go.

I’m an avid cyclist and occasional runner. My endurance is not a problem and I’ve done my share of suffering. I’m 5’10”/160 – but could probably drop 5-7 lbs. I’ve trained pretty hard for my other trips, and used a hypoxic tent. I could probably up my training 25% or so. But I’m not sure anything will get me over the hump of being laid low over 18k feet.

My questions:
How do I know if I’m at the limit of my physiology?
Is it possible to improve high altitude acclimatization and performance? Is there a best thing/best way?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks.

gene99 wrote:How do I know if I’m at the limit of my physiology?

I think only you can answer that.

Is it possible to improve high altitude acclimatization and performance? Is there a best thing/best way?

Unless you want to resort to Diamox, the only way is more acclimatization. You could try acclimatizing longer, which will be the best method.

When I climbed Chimborazo, I notice that such altitudes were easier than they were previously because I had been living at 2500 meters 8200 for several months before going down to Ecuador.

This may sound crazy but if you're 5' 10" and weigh 160 you don't need to lose weight. You should have your % of body fat tested. Maybe you need to add some fat so you have more stored energy in the tank. You're probably burning muscle on those long endurance trips. I'm 5' 10" and weighed 175 when I was in my 60's. It wasn't uncommon to lose 5-7 lbs and a few inches off my waist on long climbs, which I'm sure you know.