A review of the Research on the Mechanism and Recovery Strategy of Exercise-Induced Fatigue in the Hypoxic Environment of the Plateau

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jmpe.202618505

Author(s)

Xiaolu Ji1, Xiangyun Geng1, Rongyun Fan2,*

Affiliation(s)

1College of Physical Education, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, Qinghai, China 2Qinghai Institute of Sports Science, Xining, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

Hypoxic exposure at high altitude represents a unique and extreme exercise environment. Reduced oxygen partial pressure profoundly alters energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and neuromuscular regulation, resulting in substantial differences in the onset, accumulation, and recovery of exercise-induced fatigue compared with exercise performed at sea level. Unlike conventional exercise-induced fatigue under normoxic conditions, high-altitude exercise-induced fatigue is characterized by the combined effects of metabolic peripheral fatigue and central nervous system fatigue, representing a major constraint on the effectiveness of altitude training and a critical factor influencing athletic performance and physiological recovery. This review systematically examines recent domestic and international research on exercise-induced fatigue under high-altitude hypoxia. the underlying mechanisms of fatigue are discussed from four perspectives: energy metabolism disturbances, oxidative stress and associated damage, impaired neuromuscular regulation, and immune dysfunction. Furthermore, various recovery strategies, including physical interventions, nutritional supplementation, training regulation, and psychological adjustment, are summarized. Key controversies and emerging directions in the current research are identified, and future research trends are discussed. This review aims to provide a theoretical basis and practical insights for the scientific management of training in high-altitude endurance sports, precision-oriented interventions for exercise-induced fatigue, and the promotion of health and physical performance in high-altitude environments.

Keywords

High Altitude; Hypoxia; Exercise-Induced Fatigue; Energy Metabolism; Recovery Strategies

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