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01-03-2022 | Original Article

Effect of a speed ascent to the top of Europe on cognitive function in elite climbers

Authors: Benoit Champigneulle, Karen Davranche, Julien Vincent Brugniaux, Sébastien Baillieul, Thibault Gajdos, Stéphane Doutreleau, Paul Robach, Pierre Bouzat, Samuel Verges

Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology | Issue 3/2022

Abstract

Purpose

The combined effects of acute hypoxia and exercise on cognition remain to be clarified. We investigated the effect of speed climbing to high altitude on reactivity and inhibitory control in elite climbers.

Methods

Eleven elite climbers performed a speed ascent of the Mont-Blanc (4810 m) and were evaluated pre- (at 1000 m) and immediately post-ascent (at 3835 m). In both conditions, a Simon task was done at rest (single-task session, ST) and during a low-intensity exercise (dual-task session, DT). Prefrontal cortex (PFC) oxygenation and middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv) were monitored using near-infrared spectroscopy and transcranial Doppler, respectively, during the cognitive task. Self-perceived mental fatigue and difficulty to perform the cognitive tests were estimated using a visual analog scale. Heart rate and pulse oxygenation (SpO₂) were monitored during the speed ascent.

Results

Elite climbers performed an intense (~ 50% of the time ≥ 80% of maximal heart rate) and prolonged (8h58 ± 6 min) exercise in hypoxia (minimal SpO₂ at 4810 m: 78 ± 4%). Reaction time and accuracy during the Simon task were similar pre- and post-ascent (374 ± 28 ms vs. 385 ± 39 ms and 6 ± 4% vs. 5 ± 4%, respectively; p > 0.05), despite a reported higher mental fatigue and difficulty to perform the Simon task post-ascent (all p < 0.05). The magnitude of the Simon effect was unaltered (p > 0.05), suggesting a preserved cognitive control post-ascent. Pattern of PFC oxygenation and MCAv differed between pre- and post-ascent as well as between ST and DT conditions.

Conclusions

Cognitive control is not altered in elite climbers after a speed ascent to high-altitude despite substantial cerebral deoxygenation and fatigue perception.

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Title: Effect of a speed ascent to the top of Europe on cognitive function in elite climbers
Authors: Benoit Champigneulle
Karen Davranche
Julien Vincent Brugniaux
Sébastien Baillieul
Thibault Gajdos
Stéphane Doutreleau
Paul Robach
Pierre Bouzat
Samuel Verges
Publication date: 01-03-2022
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology / Issue 3/2022
Print ISSN: 1439-6319
Electronic ISSN: 1439-6327
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-021-04855-6

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Effect of a speed ascent to the top of Europe on cognitive function in elite climbers

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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