As if weight training and cardio on the stepper were not hard enough – now you can do it with less O2.
A gym that provides simulated altitude training has expanded to Maroochydore.
Air Locker Training was designed for people to push their bodies, reducing oxygen in the room via innovative technology.
Fresh air from a compressor, which manipulates the nitrogen and oxygen levels, is pumped into the room to simulate altitude of up to 3500m.
Workouts are set to about 13 to 14 per cent oxygen, as opposed to the regular 20 to 22 per cent level.
The new studio will be among a retail hub, at 32 Wises Road.
Director of performance Sandor Earl has been working out with foundation members.
He said there were significant benefits to training in thinner air.
“When training at altitude, your oxygen levels in the blood are reduced and this produces an increase in red blood cell production,” he said.
“Through that adaptation your body becomes more efficient at utilising oxygen.
“The opportunity to train in altitude is really special.
“What was formerly only available to elite athletes can now be utilised by everyone every day.”
The former NRL player said he benefitted from the training.
“Training in our simulated altitude environment is the perfect opportunity for me to have my hard work rewarded and achieve that next level I am chasing,” he said.
Sandor said novice and experienced gym-goers could make big gains in the oxygen-reduced room.
“The altitude environment will increase the difficulty and force that intensity,” he said.
“Physiologically, they are being challenged.
“The working environment will force the adaptation, burn more calories and give you more bang for your buck.”
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Air Locker Training was founded by Roman Brady at Newcastle in 2019 and it has since expanded to include 15 studios around Australia.
Sandor became a business partner after playing professional rugby league for the Sydney Roosters, Penrith Panthers, Canberra Raiders and Melbourne Storm.
He was banned from the NRL from 2013 to 2017 under the NRL’s anti-doping policy, before he made a successful comeback for the Storm.
He also played for their affiliate, the Sunshine Coast Falcons, in the Queensland competition.
Sandor retired from football in 2020, before moving into the fitness and gym realm.
For more information, see Air Locker.
