IHHT Altitude Training

A 45-minute Intermittent Hypoxic-Hyperoxic Training (IHHT) session that alternates low and high oxygen breathing through a mask to stimulate mitochondrial adaptation, improve oxygen utilisation, and enhance cellular resilience.

Intermittent Hypoxic-Hyperoxic Training (IHHT) is a controlled breathing protocol that alternates between hypoxic air (reduced oxygen, typically 9-14% O2 vs the normal 21%) and hyperoxic air (elevated oxygen, 30-36% O2) through a comfortable face mask. The 45-minute session at The Retreat cycles through multiple hypoxic-hyperoxic intervals, with each phase lasting 3-7 minutes depending on the client's physiological response monitored in real-time via pulse oximetry. The primary mechanism of IHHT is mitochondrial selection — a process sometimes called 'mitochondrial housekeeping.' During hypoxic phases, damaged or inefficient mitochondria (which are less able to function under reduced oxygen conditions) are triggered for apoptosis and autophagy. During hyperoxic recovery phases, the body preferentially replicates healthy, efficient mitochondria to fill the gap. Over a series of 10-15 sessions, this selective pressure measurably improves overall mitochondrial quality and density, translating to better cellular energy production, improved oxygen utilisation efficiency, and enhanced metabolic flexibility. Clinical applications of IHHT include altitude pre-acclimatisation for mountaineers, cardiovascular rehabilitation (improved VO2max and cardiac output), metabolic syndrome management (improved insulin sensitivity and lipid profiles), neurodegenerative disease support (enhanced cerebral oxygenation), and general anti-ageing protocols. The therapy originated in Soviet-era sports science and aerospace medicine, where it was used to prepare cosmonauts and athletes for extreme oxygen environments. At The Retreat, IHHT sessions are conducted under physician supervision with continuous SpO2 monitoring. The protocol is adjusted in real-time based on each client's desaturation response, ensuring safety while maximising the adaptive stimulus. IHHT pairs naturally with the clinic's IV therapies (particularly the Recovery Recharge for mitochondrial cofactors) and red light therapy (which independently stimulates mitochondrial function via cytochrome c oxidase activation).