Timing of return from altitude training for optimal sea level performance

While a number of published studies exist to guide endurance athletes with the best practices regarding implementation of altitude training, a key unanswered question concerns the proper timing of return to sea level prior to major competitions. Evidence reviewed here suggests that, altogether, the deacclimatization responses of hema-tological, ventilatory, and biomechanical factors with return to sea level likely interact to determine the best timing for competitive performance.