Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part B (2024)

High-altitude exposure poses a significant physiological challenge due to hypobaric hypoxia, leading to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and resulting oxidative stress. Athletes undergoing high-altitude training are particularly vulnerable as intense physical activity exacerbates ROS generation. This paper explores the mechanisms of oxidative stress in hypoxic environments, the physiological adaptation in athletes, and the dynamic response of key antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Recent findings indicate that controlled altitude exposure can enhance antioxidant capacity through preconditioning mechanisms, but prolonged or excessive exposure may impair performance and recovery. Understanding these biochemical responses is essential to designing altitude training protocols that optimize performance while minimizing cellular damage.