IHHT Therapy vs. IHHT Training

9. 10. 2024

Do you know the difference?

Both forms of IHHT (Intermittent Hypoxic-Hyperoxic Training) involve alternating between breathing hypoxic (low oxygen) and hyperoxic (high oxygen) air. The key difference between the two is that one takes place at rest, while the other occurs during activity, such as exercise on an ergometer. The differences in their effects on the body are as follows:

IHHT Therapy – Training at Rest

  • Targeted Regeneration: Improves regeneration, relaxation, and the body’s overall resistance to stress.
  • Cellular Function Improvement: Enhances mitochondrial function, leading to better energy production at the cellular level.
  • Improved Immune Function: Boosts the immune system.
  • Reduction of Oxidative Stress: Helps reduce oxidative stress, leading to better cellular health.

IHHT Training – During Activity on an Ergometer

  • Aerobic and Anaerobic Capacity: Increases the body’s aerobic and anaerobic capacities. Training that alternates between breathing hypoxic and hyperoxic air improves endurance and strength.
  • Deep Regeneration and Metabolic Waste Removal: Due to the strong oxygen deficit that can only be achieved through exercise in hypoxia followed by an oxygenation phase, which is also more effective during activity than at rest, oxygen penetrates deeper into body tissues and muscles, making it more efficient at removing metabolic waste products.
  • Increased Cardiovascular Load: Puts more strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to improved cardiovascular function.
  • Boosted Metabolism: Exercise causes greater metabolic adaptations, such as improved oxygen utilization in muscles and increased fat consumption as an energy source.
  • Enhanced Muscle Endurance: Increases muscle endurance and strength due to the combination of hypoxic exposure and physical activity.

Both forms of IHHT have their benefits and can positively impact health and physical fitness. The choice between them depends on the individual’s specific goals:

If the goal is to improve overall health, regeneration, and cellular function without physical exertion, the IHHT system, which enables training at rest, is a suitable choice.

If the goal is to improve physical fitness, endurance, and strength while undergoing deep regeneration, and you’re ready to break a sweat, then the Contrast System is the right choice, as it also allows the use of the IHHT protocol at rest.