| The Central Colorado elevation is more than a mile high. Most ski resorts in Colorado are approximately two miles high. High elevation affects your body and influences
the weather. It impacts every decision made in planning for a trip:
route and clothing chosen, evaluation of fitness and ability, and
amount and types of liquid and food consumed.
The effects of the Colorado altitude are usually felt immediately
upon arriving in the mountains. All excercise is harder at first.
Visitors might experience heavy breathing, rapid heartbeat, fatigue,
headache, nausea, or insomnia. This is normal. At 9,000 feet, each
breath takes in only 70 to 80 percent of the oxygen available at
sea level.
You can minimize the effects of the high Colorado elevation
by drinking lots of water, avoiding alcohol, eating light, high-carbohydrate
meals, increasing physical activity gradually, and rest when tired.
After about four or five days, most visitors begin to feel better.
Water loss occurs rapidly when exercising at high
Colorado altitude. Low humidity and direct sun cause perspiration, a potent
combination. While exercising, the movement of air over your body
is accelerating water loss from skin. If you are thirsty, dehydration
has already begun.
Drink water or sports drinks before, during and
after exercising. Try to consume no less than a pint of liquid per
hour while exercising. Drink every 15 to 20 minutes even if sensation
of thirst is absent. Carry a large water bottle for access to water.
Sun
With less atmosphere to filter out the sun's harmful rays, mountain
travelers are more vulnerable to sunburn. There is five times more
ultraviolet light here than at sea level. Apply sunblock lotions
or wear protective clothing. The intense sunshine can produce withering
heat in open areas. At midday it can sap energy, deliver headaches,
and contribute to dehydration. In hot weather, try to get out in
the early morning or late afternoon. And drink lots of water to
avoid heat stroke and heat exhaustion. |
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