Altitude Climbing Anxiety

[Starfish]

I have arrived in Shasta for my year's goal event: the summit century, with 10,500 feet of climbing, for a PB for me.

I live at sea level, & now I'm at 3000-3500' & feeling it in my head & HR. I'm getting nervous. The ride will go up to 7500'. My home mountain goes from sea to 5000', but I haven't trained for sustained time up high...it is just the top of the hill. Just up, then down.

I think I'm psyching myself out a little...I'm here on my own without anyone to just blab with. And, I know I can also feel this elevation in my body.

And, on a side note, I'm really missing my mom, who died this year. She was my best friend and biggest fan, and she LOVED this kind of place...she would have loved to be here with me. Guess I wish I had her to talk to.

Any suggestions about the altitude?

[Pedal Wench]

I left from Atlanta (1000 feet) and dropped into Frisco, CO (9,000) and did rides that maxed out at well over 11,000 feet. I did all the usual precautions - lots of carbs, LOTS of water, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and take it easy the first few days, getting plenty of sleep, but if possible, do a short workout at altitude if you can allow enough time to recover before the Big Event.

[bikerchick68]

the only recommend I can offer is to climb at your own pace... keep your gears easy and just take your time...

and talk to your mom along the way too... she'll be happy you're in such a beautiful place...

[maillotpois]

5,000 is quite manageable coming right from sea level. A couple things to remember:

Many folks find their stomach is affected and that they have trouble taking in adequate food and staying hydrated. Thinner air is often drier, so hydration is hugely important. Listen to SK - hydrate! (But don't forget those pesky electrolytes!).

In terms of thinner air and breathing - you'll generally go a bit slower, breathe a bit more. People with asthma may need to monitor themselves more closely. But as long as you're pacing yourself, you're not going to be gasping for air.

I always find the worst day for me arriving at elevation is the first day, unpacking the car for camping or ski trip or whatever. You'll adjust pretty quickly.

ETA: Oh I misunderstood - I thought the ride topped out at 5000 - but still, 7500 is manageable as well. Just watch your pace and DON'T WORRY about how slow or not slow you are. That's the key - staying calm.

[RolliePollie]

Hey Starfish,

I think you'll be fine! Especially with your frequent rides up to Hurricane Ridge. I agree that you need to drink extra water.

I live at 3,500' and the only comparison I can offer is downhill skiing. When I ski at 7,000'-9,000', I rarely notice the altitude unless I forget to drink enough water. Then I'll get killer headaches. If I start thinking about the altitude too much, then I'll convince myself that it is impacting me. If I'm having a great time skiing and drinking enough water, I really do not notice the altitude at all. Same goes for high altitude hikes...if I'm distracted by other things, like the beautiful scenery or good company, then I never notice the altitude.

The Shasta ride sounds just amazing. Good luck to you! I hope you brought your camera so you can share some pictures. And I bet your mom will be there to help you along the way too

[IFjane]

Starfish - I do something similar to Pedal Wench every year. I live at about 800 ft. & travel to Frisco & points beyond in the Rockies to ride my bike. Some years are better than others, and this year was a bad one (many reasons not related to riding at altitude). I have found that the secrets to succesful altitude riding are (not necessarily in order):

1. Hydrate!
2. Fuel your body. Try to have something (gel, bar, sportbeans, fruit, peanut butter & jelly bagel, etc.) every 30 minutes or so when you are climbing.
2. Do not expect to be as fast or strong as you are at home - the air is thinner & your muscles are screaming for more oxygen - so take it a bit slower.
3. Keep your heartrate down so you can breathe - switch to lower gears than you think you need.
4. Enjoy the scenery!

[SadieKate]

Drink more water!

I do think it's just anxiety. The elevation change isn't that drastic but anxiety could be giving you similar symptoms. Go find something fun to do to take your mind off it.

And be sure to drink more water.

Are you in Mt Shasta City? There's a nice little book store on the main drag and 5th Season Sports (or whatever it's called) can provide some nice recreational shopping.