In this first episode we talk to Alan Ruskowski, the president and CEO of CVAC Systems Inc. Top athletes like tennis star Novak Djokovic and MMA fighter Tito Ortiz have been known to use CVAC technology to improve their performance and recovery. We discuss with Alan about the mechanisms behind CVAC devices work and how they can offer users a lot of the effects of exercise without the physical exertion of exercise.

What is CVAC?

CVAC stands for Cyclic Variations in Adaptive Conditioning. Its primary purpose is to replicate two pathways associated with exercise:

• Mitochondrial Biogenesis: Mitochondria converts oxygen and glucose into energy, and this is the source of 80%-90% of the energy in our body. Mitochondrial Biogenesis is the process in which new mitochondria are formed in cells. CVAC devices introduce changes in pressure that seem to cause voltage changes on the mitochondrial surface. These changes lead to increase in nitric oxide, which in turn increases the creation of mitochondria.
• Lymphatic Stimulation: Removes metabolic waste

“If you don’t have an adequate number of mitochondria, then you don’t have enough energy”

In short, CVAC devices introduce a mechanical process that stimulates the production of mitochondria and the removal metabolic waste products.

CVAC vs. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy vs. High Altitude Chambers

Hyperbaric chambers were initially developed for scuba divers. They are high pressure devices that introduce oxidative stress. CVAC devices use low pressure and low oxygen stress. In an altitude chamber, the oxygen content of normal air (20% oxygen) is reduced to 17%, 15%, or 13%. CVAC devices keep oxygen levels at 20%, but the low pressure means that you breath in fewer oxygen molecules with each breath of air.

The result is more akin to being at Everest Base Camp than what altitude chambers provide. The change in pressure as well as the rate of change in pressure stimulates an environment for sales similar to resistance training with very heavy weights.

Benefits of Using CVAC Devices

Improved Oxygen Carrying Capacity

After several months of use, CVAC devices stimulate the body makes more blood vessels and capillaries. Independent studies done at the University of Hawaii and Stanford University measured a 9%-10% increase in the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood in CVAC users. Users have also routinely seen 5% increases in VO2max and peak power increases at altitude of 20%. In contrast, EPO doping only increases VO2max by 2%.

Improved Recovery

Because CVAC lowers the pressure in the lungs, it’s thought that it may also stimulate the flow of cerebrospinal fluid to wash out waste products. Sleeping in the pod for 10 to 15 minutes may help athletes recover. Hormone Changes In addition to converting oxygen and glucose into energy, Mitochondria are also responsible for metabolizing cholesterol into testosterone and estrogen. There is evidence that suggests that CVAC use is related to increases testosterone levels.

General Benefits The benefits of using CVAV devices are similar to the benefits of exercising. Users generally experience:

• Increased energy and endurance
• Improved cognitive function
• Improved joint and muscle function

How Often Do People Use CVAC Units?

Use will vary on convenience and availability, but time in the device can be treated like a very effective form of exercise. Alan recommends a minimum of 20 minutes three times per week and a maximum of an hour each day.

Resource Links

Apeiron Center  Ironman Executive CVAC Systems Official Website