Comparison of balance strategies in mountain climbers during real altitude exposure between 1.500 m and 3.200 m: Effects of age and expertise

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of altitude (1500 m vs. 3200 m) on balance strategies, and to determine the influence of age (> or or Method Eighty-nine volunteer mountaineers were tested at 1500 m, 3200 m immediately after exiting the cable car and at 3200 m following the climb and return. Double-leg stance with eyes closed and single-leg stance with eyes open were tested. The center of pressure (CoP) was recorded for 12.8 s using a stabilometric force platform. Length, surface, ratio (length/surface), and average speed of the CoP, as well as lower limb loading were calculated. Groups and altitudes were compared using ANOVA. Significance was set to p  Results CoP ratio was significantly higher during both balance conditions at 3200 m compared to 1500 m (p  Conclusion Postural stability was immediately reduced on arrival at 3200 m, particularly in subjects above the age of 40 years with less expertise.