What really happens to your body at high altitude—and how can you prepare for it?
In this episode, Jake Field is joined by Nick Hart, an altitude training specialist with extensive experience preparing adventurers for high-elevation treks. They break down the essentials of altitude training, reveal common mistakes trekkers make, and explain why nutrition, hydration, and mindset matter far more than most realise.
Nick shares practical advice on acclimatisation, altitude medication like Diamox, and mental resilience, alongside real stories illustrating the unpredictability of high-altitude adventures.
Whether you’re planning to trek to Everest Base Camp, climb Kilimanjaro, or simply want to understand altitude better, this episode is essential listening.
He discusses:
• Altitude sickness doesn’t discriminate. No matter your fitness, your reaction largely depends on genetics.
• Preparation goes beyond physical fitness. True readiness means deeply understanding altitude’s effects.
• Nutrition and hydration can make or break your climb. These aren’t minor details; they’re lifelines at elevation.
• Guides aren’t just helpful; they’re essential. Their knowledge ensures your safety and enhances your overall experience.
• Adventure travel is more than summiting. The true lessons are resilience, respect for nature, and embracing every moment along the way.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Altitude Training Mistakes
04:10 Preparing for Altitude: The Importance of Testing
07:18 The Spectrum of Altitude Sickness
09:53 Nutrition and Hydration at Altitude
13:11 On-Mountain Strategies for Success
15:57 Pre-Trip Training and Acclimatization
19:07 Psychological Preparedness for Altitude
22:03 The Science of Acclimatization
25:10 Managing Expectations and Symptoms
27:47 Hydration and Altitude Effects
30:09 Understanding Altitude Sickness
31:50 Cognitive Awareness and Safety
33:42 The Role of Guides in Climbing
37:20 Altitude Medication: Diamox and Its Use
41:25 Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned
Episode Links:
• Altitude Training Resources: Essential fitness resources to prepare for altitude.
• The Altitude Centre: Expert-led altitude training and assessment programmes.
• What it’s like to climb Mount Toubkal: A personal account to give you an authentic perspective on altitude trekking.
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Ultimate Guide Links;
Get the Kilimanjaro Guide
Get the Everest Base Camp Guide
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